RABY Castle will host the 14th Annual English Longbow World Wand Championships this month.
Archery has been a part of Raby’s history for centuries and it is fitting the organisers say that this event is held against the backdrop of the castle on Sunday, June 23.
In 1346 Ralph Neville, 2nd Baron Neville of Raby, led English troops to victory against Scottish Forces at the Battle of Neville’s Cross. The Battle took place just outside of Durham and the Battlefields Trust believes that as many as 10,000 English archers were involved.
Fred Bates, of the Archers of the Tees, said Raby, Darlington and the surrounding area was renowned during the 100 Years’ War for fletchery (arrow making).
Mr Bates said: “Over the years the World Wand Championship has drawn competitors from around the world, from China, Hong Kong, Spain, Germany and Australia to name just a few as well as England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“Through events like this the Archers of the Tees promote the traditional skills of archery and ensure the sport continues.”
He said that the wand was used to train archers to shoot in a straight line. It was traditionally made of willow and was around an inch thick.
“The wand we use is around four inches thick and we set it at 20, 30, 40 and 50 yards so that everyone can have a go, from children to adults,” he said.
“In days gone by children as young as seven were taught archery. They would have been expected to shoot battle distance of around 200 to 250 yards by the time they were 15,” he added. The youngest champion was just 15 when he lifted the trophy at Raby. This year’s event will see archers of all ages compete.
Mr Bates said: “Archery has been practised in England since 1066 for use in battles and the first competition was the Silver Arrow Competition which was started in 1673.”
