A happy band of pistoleeros fought the elements of wind and rain, to participate in Kells' first Cowboy Action Shoot. (Actually the threatened rain never did arrive.)

Many dressed in the height of fashion of yesteryear, toting those 'hoglegs' in period rigs strapped to their waists; hauling those lever action rifles into play; or grabbing that shotgun and putting buckshot into some bad assed hombre. All this added up to a real blast (excuse the pun).

The targets were metal poppers, fixed so that they gave a satisfying ping when hit, but did not fall down. The shotgun targets were normal poppers that keeled over as usual, when struck by a blast of hale.

The Tombstone Kid introduced the idea of trying this discipline, and was eagerly aided and abetted in the planning and preparation by Grizzly Adams. The whole posse of participants willingly laboured to set up the stages before the fun began. They entered into the spirit of the event with great satisfaction, shouting and yelling suitable epithets at the targets before shooting them down. This proved to be tremendous fun.

Some people just came to watch the spectacle, but were soon caught up in the action, hurling lead from various firearms at the array of targets, and enjoying every moment.

At lunchtime the Pony Express was despatched for provisions. Those two phantoms of the plains, the man with no name, yes folks, the Lone Stranger and that true son of Texas Al. E. Moe made sure that fish suppers were delivered safe and hot.

On hand to capture all this action for posterity was Jessie James, who had exchanged his trusty .44-40 for a newfangled shootin iron - a super slick Nikon. So watch out, there's a Jessie James about.

By the end of the day, all the tinhorn gamblers had met their fate, marauding Indians had been sent to kingdom come and the homestead had been saved. The entire posse survived to shoot another day. Those tired but happy buckaroos wanted to know when the next adventure into Cowboy Action would take place. It will be soon, so watch out for news, and come along and join in the fun.

Happy trails

The Tombstone Kid.

PS. For all those who had to work, or were apprehensive about trying something new, you sure missed a heap of fun.

PPS. A DVD is available to club members. It contains many more still pictures (without pixellated faces) and a number of video clips. There is a small charge of £2 to cover costs. [Contact James]