The Montgomeryshire & District Air Gun League - Bell Target - has operated since at least the very early part of the 20th Century. Although at this time we are researching the exact history to establish when the league first started we do have evidence on one of the league's annually awarded silver cup's that confirms competitions in 1911.

 

The league currently operates with one division of 10 teams. The League currently attracts the majority of it's membership from within an approximate 15 mile radius of Welshpool, near the Mid Wales border with England.

 

League & Knock Out cup matches are normally shot on the traditional metal faced bell target mechanism with a 3/8" dia 'Bulls Eye' or hole in the center of the faceplate. Only .177" (4.5mm) calibre Match Target Air Rifles are permitted for use.

 

The Standard course of fire for League matches is 7 scoring shots with a maximum score value of 5.1 points awarded for a shot that passes 'clean' into the 'Bulls Eye'. Members are permitted 2 sighting shots before starting their match shots.The 'Maximum Possible' score being 35.7

 

Like many other Bell Target leagues, we have seen a considerable reduction in teams & membership during the recent decades, in the 1960's & 70's the M & DAGL operated 3 divisions with matches taking place on Monday & Thursday evenings.

 

The M & DAGL committee & members alike are working hard to attract former & new teams / members back into the sport with a focus especially on attracting new 'younger' members, who ultimately are vital for the continuation of this league & other similar leagues in the region.

 

At the 2009 AGM, a new initiative was introduced that will permit young Junior individuals who are keen to compete in target shooting, but not physically strong enough to support an Air Rifle in the standing position unaided, to use a wooden frame device with canvas belt to support the forend while the Junior concentrates on safe control of the rifle at the shoulder / trigger area.

 

The league also sends represenative teams to 'Inter League' events & undertakes fundraising for charity including the Mid Wales Air Ambuance fund and the Severn Hospice Fundraising Appeal.