Deer Park Archers wins Going Green Award at prestigious ceremony

Deer Park Archers won the Going Green Award at the Sport and Recreation Alliance’s 2024 Community Sport and Recreation Awards on Friday, March 8.

The Gloucestershire-based club was chosen because judges believe that it has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to sustainability.

For example, solar panels have been installed throughout its grounds and the field archery course has been set up in an existing woodland.

The club uses recycled bows and helps enhance the development of native flora and fauna in its woodland.

Members are also encouraged to recycle target materials and to share lifts to training sessions and competitions. 

The awards ceremony - which was held at Headingly Stadium in Liverpool - celebrates the achievements of individuals and organisations involved in grassroots sport and recreation across the UK. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Alliance CEO Lisa Wainwright MBE said: “The Community Sport and Recreation Awards are a highlight of my year, where we get to recognise and reward the amazing work of people and organisations who contribute so much to sport and recreation and – in doing so – contribute so much to communities across the country.

"It is vitally important to us that we continue to celebrate these initiatives, given the significant societal benefits they bring, from mental health to inclusion and from sustainability to creating thriving places to live. 

“I want to congratulate all the winners on their fantastic achievements – they have all done incredible work this year, and grassroots sport and recreation benefits immensely from their efforts.”

Many talented young athletes from our area, including Cirencester-born Ella Gibson who is currently world number one in women's compound archery, train at Deer Park Archers.

Members practice at Balcarras School Sports Centre in Charlton Kings and Kingshill Sports Centre in Cirencester as well as the club's outdoor facilities in Shurdington.