A CHURCHILL activity centre has opened its new archery and air rifle ranges.

Along with the help of local contractors, Mendip Activity Centre has built the new ranges after receiving planning permission in January 2023.

The target ranges, which were part-funded by North Somerset Council's Rural Prosperity Fund, are fully covered to protect visitors from the elements.

They were designed with accessibility in mind, meaning that all users can try it out.

David Eddins, managing director at Mendip Activity Centre, said: "We are delighted to have received a Rural England Prosperity Fund grant from North Somerset Council to allow us to build four new target sport ranges at Mendip Activity Centre.

"These purpose built, covered ranges are fully accessible and enable individuals with additional physical and learning needs to try archery or air rifle shooting.

"It also means locals and visitors can come and try archery or air rifle shooting under cover for the first time."

Winscombe and Sanford Parish Council supported the opening of the new accessible ranges.

Posting on social media, a spokesperson from the centre said: "Just wanted to say thanks to Winscombe and Sandford Parish Council for supporting our new accessible target sport ranges which opened in time for the Easter holidays

"Built with thanks to a Rural Prosperity Grant from North Somerset Council."

Over the summer, the ranges will be used by school groups on outdoor activity residentials. 

The Mendip Activity Centre is the largest of its kind in the South West.

The organisation's website reads: "Established in 1987, Mendip Activity Centre has grown into the biggest and most reputable outdoor activity provider in the South West.

"Our unrivalled success is largely due to the reputation and experience of our instructors – who we believe are the best in the business. 

"Mendip has been delivering adventurous outdoor activities to groups for almost four decades and in 2012 we were excited to move to Churchill where we founded Mendip Activity Centre.

"This is a unique 250-acre site nestled in the heart of the Mendip Hills National Landscape.  

"We now boast an indoor residential centre, three canvas villages and an alpine-style cafe/bar, the Alpine Lounge.

"The snowsports slope is 165 metres long, beautifully nestled into the hill and follows the natural lay of the land.

"We are home to one of the largest disc golf courses in the UK, purpose-built target sports ranges, forest school sites and a tobogganing slope."

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