By George Ledger & John Race
Everest Archery Club was formed in 2015 as a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers with all funds going towards venue hire and the running of and maintenance of all equipment. It started on behalf of ‘Tantobie Community Association’ as part of funded projects linked with getting people active with a view to reducing heart attacks and diabetes. Initially sessions were held in schools both primary and secondary right across the old district of Derwentside.
As interest grew the organiser, Chris Hume started to deliver sessions in the Louisa Centre, it proved so popular that it was quickly divided into a junior session followed by a senior session. Numbers continued to grow and further sessions were added on extra days to accommodate everyone, making 5 sessions per week.
The outside sessions at Tantobie were so popular that they had to find alternative indoor venues over winter months, with Schools in Consett and Greencroft being used. Covid-19 meant the cancellation of all activities, but as soon as outside gatherings were allowed the club returned with Outdoor sessions at Tantobie, followed by Indoor sessions at the Louisa Centre, Stanley.
Chris Hume