Here is author Donald Dallas receiving the HBSA President’s Cup from Derek Stimpson HBSA Chairman. The presentation took place at Holt’s recent auction view on 11th December. Donald is also seen holding the cup with his gold medal which is retained by cup winners when the cup passes to the next winner.

Stourport on Severn, Saturday 3rd December 2018 Dear Competitors A very big thank you for taking part in our 3rd Christmas Rook and Reindeer shoot in aid of charity. We were once again privileged to be able to use the range at Stourport on Severn which is an excellent venue; it provides a covered firing point with plenty of room for all. I would very much like to thank the Committee and Members of Stourport on Severn Rifle club for allowing us the use of their range, and all those who attended and supported a very worthy cause. This year we attracted 12 entrants shooting in two categories, one for early Rim Rife rifles and the other for Central Fire (Rook) rifle. See the results here >>> Update to our charity collection. Due to a generous contribution from Linda & Mike Welsh who were unable to make it on Saturday, our total collection totalled £192 which has been paid to McMillian in support of the very valuable work they do. Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year Paul

A field of 19 competitors assembled at 200 yards on a blustery and rather grey, drizzly day for the traditional Christmas ‘fun’ shoot and lunch.

As members may be aware this is now in the Lords. The high power rifle ban has been withdrawn but it remains to be seen what comes from the Peers before it goes back to the Commons, especially in relation to Miniature Rifle Clubs (Sect 11(4). Needless to say we are tracking this and with input/briefing as required, in close co-operation with BSSC. We will keep you informed as far as we are able. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Healthy and Happy New Year

My father Phil Godliman recently passed away. I believe was a member of HBSA. I don’t know if anyone at HBSA who knew Phil is still a member or even still alive (Dad was 92) but just in case could you let members know? We are having a service at Slough Crematorium on 12th December at 2pm. Thanks, Mike Godliman Members will be sad to learn of the recent passing of Phil Godliman. He was 92 and had been active well into his 80’s. Phil was a stalwart of HBSA and a founder member. There will be a service at Slough Crematorium on 12th December at 14.00. By the way his son writes it seems that members wishing to attend will be welcome Derek Stimpson

We have received the sad news that Robert Edminson passes away. He had been much involved in the Tameside club and would have been known to many members. Derek Stimpson

Members should be aware of the situation regarding EFPs post 29th March 2019. Of course there will be other issues but if you have and use an EFP please look at the attached link: Derek Stimpson https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/travelling-with-a-european-firearms-pass-if-theres-no-brexit-deal

Attached is David Penn’s legislative update.

Following a recent request I am re-posting and amplifying the following post from 2016. Members are reminded that if they have a collection of Section 1 firearms (or seek to establish one) then these may be identified on their FAC. You will need to explain your theme or proposed theme to the police. A typical collecting condition (where collecting is the “good reason”) might read:- “The firearms which are identified by an asterisk (*) on this certificate must be possessed, purchased or acquired by the holder of the certificate only for the purpose of its being kept or exhibited as part of a collection and may be fired occasionally (or it may say “not to be fired” if that is your wish)”. Section 7 firearms are automatically treated as a collection and marked on the FAC by an asterisk or hatch mark. There is reference to collecting in the Guide on Firearms Licensing Law in various places, notably, Chapter 8: Antique Firearms, Chapter 13: Good reason to possess a firearm, and Appendix 3: Conditions for firearm certificates. It should be noted that “occasionally” is not defined as such, nor is use, and such occasional use for any collectors item may be any form of shooting, including practice, competition, game shooting etc. The consideration to keep in mind is “reasonable”. Needless to say if you wish to use a particular item from the collection on your FAC more than a few times during the year then it may be preferable not to rely on collecting as your good reason and to record the use, as with your other firearms. The good reason for possession would then be target shooting (or as appropriate). The good reason can always be amended to “collecting” if your shooting reduces or ceases. If you have questions or concerns please get in touch – we are here to help Derek Stimpson chairman@hbsa-uk.org