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Archer takes a bow for 90th birthday

Ben Turner
20/ 7/2004

AT NINETY, Ken Russell is still proving a convincing outlaw at his beloved archery club.

Rochdale's very own Robin Hood was on target with a double celebration when his birthday coincided with the 50th anniversary of Rochdale Company of Archers.

The former Royal Artillery gunner led 43 members through a challenging contest at Rochdale Rugby Union Club to honour the half-century.

They fired four dozen arrows at distances of 50 and 60 yards in a dizzying test of skill, before settling down for a buffet lunch.

Mr Russell, of Church Stile, became interested in archery after seeing an advertisement in the Observer in 1959.

He said: "I went down to an open day when the club was based in Wardle and fell into it straight away. I still go every week."

"It is the personal challenge I enjoy. It is getting harder, I'll admit, but I changed to an easier bow a few months ago and want to keep going as long as I can."

Club secretary, Judith Roberts, said: "We had a really good anniversary event."

"Ken is our oldest member by some distance. I think our appeal is that anyone is welcome to join - our youngest member is nine. It is not expensive or elite and has a good social scene."

She revealed that the success of the 'Lord Of The Rings' films had boosted archery's popularity and brought in new members.