Southend & District Gun Club (S&DGC) is a well-established, non-profit members' club founded in 1962 and located in the scenic area of Rochford, Essex. The club is highly regarded for its rich history, having produced numerous County, England, and UK champions across various clay target disciplines. It offers a welcoming environment for both serious competitive shooters and casual enthusiasts, maintaining a strong focus on safety and traditional shooting values.
A standout feature of the club is its prestigious pedigree; several of its members, including founders and senior committee figures, served as range officers, referees, and officials during the 2012 London Olympics. The clubhouse itself acts as a small museum, decorated with decades of international shooting memorabilia and accolades earned by its members on the global stage.
The facility provides a diverse range of shooting disciplines across well-maintained grounds:
English Skeet & Skeet Doubles: Primary disciplines with dedicated ranges.
Olympic (ISSF) Skeet: Specialized layouts for international-standard practice.
Automatic Ball Trap (ABT): A member favorite for trap enthusiasts.
Sporttrap & "Mini Sporting": Challenging targets often set within the natural woodland terrain.
Instruction at S&DGC is led by a committee of highly experienced shooters who are available to offer tips and guidance on various disciplines. The club is CPSA-affiliated and occasionally hosts official training, such as the first Essex-based English Skeet referee course. Training is designed to be low-pressure, allowing newcomers to learn at their own pace or prepare for the club's various Summer and Winter series competitions.
Beyond the shooting lines, the club offers essential infrastructure for a comfortable visit:
Reception & Shop: On-site facilities for purchasing cartridges and basic supplies.
Catering: A clubhouse providing tea, coffee, and snacks for members and guests.
Recreation: A pool table and a dedicated air rifle "plinking" range for use between clay rounds.
S&DGC is ideal for competitive athletes aiming for national rankings, as well as local families and individuals seeking a professional yet friendly club atmosphere. Its main advantages include its historical expertise, diverse layouts that utilize the wooded relief, and its strict adherence to CPSA safety standards, ensuring a high-quality experience for all visitors.
