A GRATELEY-based archery club is appealing for a new indoor shooting area after the buildings they practise in were destroyed by fire.

As the indoor archery season begins Tenzone Bowmen have been left without anywhere to practise after a fire broke out at the IronSight Paintball site near Goodworth Clatford last Friday afternoon.

Last week the club was celebrating after two of its members, injured soldiers Gary Prout and Andy Phillips, won gold and silver medals for team Great Britain in the recurve and compound competitions at the Invictus Games, organised by Prince Harry.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue could not confirm the cause of the blaze but it is believed that it was due to a lightning strike in the area.

Fire crews from Andover, Winchester, Romsey and Eastleigh were on the scene for nearly four hours after receiving a call shortly after 1pm.

Club chairman Steve Olding said: “We have got approximately 40 members shooting on a regular basis.

“We cater for all age groups and we use the venue twice a week.

“We are looking for somewhere that is 25 to 30 metres long, perhaps an empty industrial unit but as the club has disabled members it needs disabled access and toilet facilities.”

Describing the club’s disappointment Adam Stanforth, press officer, said: “After the high of the Invictus Games everyone was so pleased and then two days later this happened and everyone is downhearted.”

“It is such a shame because we are a thriving club, who are all very enthusiastic.”

If you can help Tenzone Bowmen find a new indoor practice area please contact Steve Olding on 07946 413306 or for more information visit tenzonebowmen.

btck.co.uk.