“On the first Sunday in May 1994, the Old Lyonian field suddenly took on a new appearance with some 24 archery targets replacing the usual stumps or goal posts. We were privileged to play host for the first time to the centuries-old Silver Arrow competition. Founded in 1684 by Sir Gilbert Talbot, the tournament took place annually on Harrow Hill for nearly one hundred years but in 1771 was discontinued as it had ‘assumed too great an importance and was attracting unsavoury characters onto the Hill’. It was reinstated in 1986 under the sponsorship of the Harrow Heritage Trust.” - The Old Lyonian, October 1994

Section history

The current Archery Section of the Old Lyonian Sports and Social Club started in 1993 with six people: Jack and Connie Baron; Colin and Philippa Nunn; and Robert and Nikki Abbott. Colin was the club chairman for the first ten years of the Section's existence.

Robert and Nikki, who were coaches to The John Lyon School, gave the necessary tuition on recurve bows, while the Sports and Social Club set the group up with all the equipment required - bosses, safety net, bows, arrows and bracers. Sadly Nikki passed away early in 2007.

The club initially followed its recurve bow origins until, after a couple of Silver Arrow contests, the influx of longbow archers began. Although not totally a longbow club, we do now have a strong longbow following.

Over the years, many people of all ages have come and enjoyed archery. Members take part in a range of field shoots and national competitions at various levels, from beginners to European champions.

There is also a heavy emphasis on enjoyment, with annual fun shoots such as the Celebration of the Battle of Agincourt, for which members wear medieval clothing, and the Pope & Young Outdoor Shoot each November.

Prices for the second, third and fourth person are available where all are members of the same family as the first person and live at the same address. Our coaches are Ron Hawkes and Len Brownsell, Secretary Ronnie Baily, CPO Robert Duncan, Vice Chair Bernie Green and Chair of Section Jane Prince.

Further details

New members are always welcome. Anyone interested is invited to contact the Chair, Jane Prince at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for further details.

• To read the 2007 annual report from the Archery Section, click here.