THE countdown has begun for National Shooting Week 2011, which will run from May 28 to June 5. Through the course of the week, shooting clubs and grounds across the country are opening their doors to offer nearly 200 open days for the public.

With the 2012 Olympics only a year away, here is a chance to try an accessible and fun Olympic discipline. Britain is world-class at shooting, and National Shooting Week offers those who have never tried shooting before a warm welcome and expert tuition in many types of shooting sports.

As an extra incentive, the many grounds will be offering this tuition at discounted rates for all newcomers. National Shooting Week, which is organised by the Countryside Alliance, is aimed at people who have never experienced target shooting before.

Complete beginners who would like to give it a shot can find out where their nearest shooting event is by going to www.nationalshootingweek.co.uk.

David Taylor, Organiser, National Shooting Week, Countryside Alliance