They are exponents of what is probably the oldest sport in the world.

After all, the bow and arrow dates back to the Paleolithic era – or the Old Stone Age.

The proud members of the Valley Bowmen of Huddersfield cannot quite claim that long a history.

But this month they are celebrating a special anniversary as it is 50 years since the archery club was founded by Ricky Farrar, husband of the late Karla Farrar who shot for England in the 1960s.

They are also looking to a bright future, after securing a big grant.

The club has seen an expansion in recent years – particularly after the spectacular success of the 2012 Olympics.

It is looking to better its facilities with new anti-vandal changing rooms and toilets along with the installation of mains electricity and water with the aid of a recently-awarded Sport England grant of £49,990.

Work is expected to start shortly on the new building at the club’s headquarters off Knowle Lane, Meltham .

The club met at the weekend to hold a special celebratory shoot in honour of the occasion.

The shoot was for members only, but spectators were welcomed.

The Valley Bowmen of Huddersfield were founded in 1963 by Ricky Farrar and his wife Karla, along with Hazel Charlesworth.

The first shooting venue was at the former police sports ground at Woodfield Park, Lockwood. They were based there for a couple of years until moving to a field next to the Sands House pub at Crosland Hill and then to Meltham in 1971.

In the early years of the club, Karla Farrar and Hazel Charlesworth were on the Yorkshire team, a tradition continued by Christine Horsfall who also shot for England.

Club secretary Paul McGuire said: “It is a great time for the club.

“ The Olympics last year were brilliant, as we held an open day after the Games and more than 100 people turned up.

“We have also brought in extra beginners’ courses to meet demand and will have 100 people going through those this year.

“It’s a sport open to all, from the age of 10 upwards, and our oldest member is in his mid-70s.

“It’s not too expensive, with a starter kit coming in at about £200, but some people can pay up to £2,000 for a bow.

“We do have members taking part in many competitions, but we also have a social side, with our integral shoots taking place on a regular basis.”

Club member Dr David Williams has been a reserve for a GB squad while Stephen Dixon and Will Kempf are both representing Yorkshire.

The Valley Bowmen are also keen to uphold traditions – including the gonfalon, the coat of arms on a pole, that is displayed at all competitions.

The club’s gonfalon was hand-stitched and embroidered by the founder Karla Farrar.

In winter the club shoots at Royds Hall School .

Members shoot longbow, recurve and compound bows with the odd enthusiast shooting Mongolian and Native American bows.

For more details about the Valley Bowmen, contact club secretary, Paul McGuire on 07960 303343 or valleybowmen@aol.com or visit www.valleybowmen.co.uk

FACTFILE

Archery is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK.
There are  over 34,000 members of Archery GB.
The Olympics in London saw individuals and teams shoot over 70m.
The most famous archer is, of course, Robin Hood – according to legend he was buried near the former Kirklees Priory.