Inter-Livery Rifle Shoot competition raises money to support RAF Family

On 29 May 2026, the RAF Small Arms Association and the City of Livery Companies joined forces to host their annual rifle shooting competition in support of the RAF’s longest standing charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Held at Bisley Camp in Surrey, the event was organised by dedicated volunteers from the Worshipful Company of Bakers and the RAF Small Arms Association, widely regarded as the home of British rifle shooting.

Marking its 12th anniversary, this year’s competition brought together more than 60 participants, representing 15 Livery Companies and one United Livery team, to compete across six disciplines.

Participating companies included the Merchant Taylors, Glovers, Agincourt Bowyers, Crécy Bowyers, Carpenters, Builders Merchants, Horners, Gunmakers, Grocers, the Ram and the Teasels (Clothworkers), Cordwainers, Knights of the Moth (Clothworkers), Barbers, Tallow Chandlers, Surgeons, and the United Livery team.

Highlights included the black powder pistol and the 1,000 yard target rifle shoot, as well as a new event for 2026, the dart target challenge.

The Worshipful Company of Barbers emerged as the overall winners, with team members Tom, Fiona and Alvan leading the way. They received a special limited edition print commemorating Operation Highmast, created to raise money for the Fund.

Conrad Steele-Benny, Secretary of the RAF Small Arms Association, said: “Whilst it can be hard work and a long day, the annual Inter-Liveries competition is always one I look forward too. The competitor’s enthusiasm and wholehearted engagement with the event and coaches, as well as the slightly competitive nature between the Liveries, always makes it particularly enjoyable day. The Liveries continued and generous support to the Fund makes this a truly worthwhile and rewarding competition for all those involved.”

RAF veteran Ivor Barnett, who has received support from the Fund, attended the event. He said: “I had the most wonderful time at the 2026 Inter-Livery Target Rifle Shoot. It was so exciting to see all the different disciplines included in the day and to be able to have a go at Bell Target Air Rifle Shoot; it took me back 70 years to my National Service.

“It was also delightful to meet the various RAF Small Arms Association coaches and members of the various Livery Companies taking part, and to do my bit for the RAF Benevolent Fund by sharing my experiences. The Fund has done so much for me and my family, I shall remember it for the rest of my life.”