Club History

The club was founded in 1928 as a ‘miniature rifle’ club (.22LR) and shooting has continued uninterrupted ever since, apart from enforced closure during WW2. In September 1942, the club wisely refused an offer from the Army to buy its two rifles and in 1948, the club acquired the use of the ex-Home Guard range at Barnwell. Two years later the current design of the club badge was adopted - the shield and diamonds motif being based upon the heraldic arms of St Wilfred who was closely associated with the ancient history of Oundle in Northamptonshire.

As the years passed, the club progressed with much success in the various NSRA and County level leagues. Key contributors to club affairs and also successful competitors were the late Les Titman, secretary for an incredible 45 years, together with the late Eric Cotton who was appointed President in 1971.

A separate pistol section was formed in 1964 and within a year ORPC was ranked third in a league of twelve competing clubs. At this time the membership roll was 27 strong, rising to 70 in 1970. By 1972 annual subs had risen to the princely sum of £4.00 per annum.

In 1979 the club was featured in the first issue of ‘Target Gun’. This was prior to the opening of the second indoor range, proudly equipped with Olympic standard turning targets. The new range which was a major project for a small club, was part financed by fund-raising events + a £15 levy on members. More recent developments include the introduction of indoor pistol calibre rifle shooting following the 1997 pistol ban and the up-rating of the Barnwell range to facilitate full-bore shooting throughout the whole year. This latter improvement was part-funded by Cambs Police whose Tactical firearms Unit (TFU) are regular users of our facility. Lighting has also be installed at Barnwell for evening shooting during the winter months.

With a total membership roll rapidly approaching the current agreed maximum of 175, the club continues to cater for most types of target related shooting needs. There is much success in competition, especially in rim-fire and air weapon disciplines with Benchrest shooting also becoming popular.

It is heartening to note that despite increasingly stringent legislation against private firearms ownership in the UK, the club continues to thrive. With the continuing commitment and support of our members, it is with optimism that we look forward to the ORPC Centenary in 2028.