Big Shots 31 raises £30,000 for Furniture Makers’ Company

The 31st edition of Big Shots, The Furniture Makers’ Company’s annual clay pigeon shooting fundraiser, raised £30,000 to support people working in the furnishing industry.

Held at the Holland & Holland shooting grounds in Middlesex, the event brought together industry professionals, suppliers and supporters for a day of friendly competition, networking and fundraising.

Principally sponsored by Furniture Village, the event welcomed both experienced and novice shooters to compete across 10 challenging stands set within 60 acres of countryside.

Following a hearty breakfast and safety briefing, teams took part in the traditional 100-bird competition, alongside a range of novelty challenges.

Guests later enjoyed a three-course lunch, prize-giving ceremony, charity raffle and auction with items like a tour of the McLaren Technology Centre up for grabs, all helping to generate vital funds for the industry charity.

This year’s top individual honours went to Chris Shaw, who claimed the title of Top Gun Male with an outstanding score of 98 points.

Rebecca Mayes was named Top Gun Female with 69 points, while Lee Bruckland took home the Top Gun Novice award with an impressive 85 points.

In the team competition, Sharpe’s Shooters emerged victorious as Top Team, scoring 416 points. Tech TopShots secured the Runner-Up Team position with 399 points and claimed the title of Top Novice Team.

The Four Man Flurry competition was won by Clay Commanders, who achieved a score of 81 points.

There were also some light-hearted awards presented on the day, with Paul Hambly receiving the title of Worst Male Shot with 28 points, while Samantha Harding was named Worst Female Shot with 20 points.

Charlie Harrison, Managing Director at Furniture Village, said: “We were delighted to support Big Shots once again. As always, it was a fantastic event and a huge success, raising an incredible £30,000 for our industry charity.

“The charity carries out vital work, supporting those in need across our industry while also investing in the next generation by developing the skills and expertise of young people and students, helping to futureproof our sector.

“As well as being a wonderful charitable initiative, Big Shots is always a fantastic day out for everyone involved, and it was great to see so many smiling faces enjoying themselves while supporting such a worthy cause.”

Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture Makers’ Company, added: “Big Shots continues to be one of the highlights of the furnishing industry calendar.

“It was wonderful to see so many companies and individuals come together to enjoy a fantastic day while raising £30,000 to support our work.

“These funds will help us continue providing practical assistance to those facing hardship, while also championing the next generation of industry talent.

“Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated and supported the event, especially our principal sponsor, Furniture Village.”

The Furniture Makers’ Company extends its sincere thanks to all sponsors, supporters and volunteers who helped make the day such a success.

For more information about The Furniture Makers’ Company, visit: The Furniture Makers’ Company – City of London livery company