Barden Charity Clay Shoot 2026: Final Call for Teams to Save Event

A long-standing charity clay shoot has issued a plea for more teams to enter or risk not going ahead for the first time in 18 years.

What is the History Behind the Barden Clay Shoot?

The Barden Clay Shoot, based near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, is an annual event which has raised around £300,000 for the national Support Dogs charity since its inception. The shoot - one of the biggest in the country - has been organised by the Birch family since 2008 as a way of thanking the charities which supported them following the birth of their daughter, Molly, who has cerebral palsy.

Why is the 2026 Charity Shoot in Danger of Cancellation?

Organisers say they are shaking up the events future format but the 2026 shoot - scheduled to go ahead on Sunday, 28 June - is in danger of being cancelled unless more teams sign up. Molly’s dad, Kevin Birch, said: “The event is so important to the charity which desperately needs to raise as much money as possible so it can help more families in the same way that it has helped ours. If we have to pull the plug on the event altogether, it would be completely devastating to so many.”

How Many Teams Are Needed and What Are the Entry Fees?

Last year, over 60 teams took part. This year, an additional 15 teams are required to sign up as soon as possible. Entry is £500 per team of four with a top prize of £1,000.

How Do You Register for the Barden Clay Shoot?

Pre-register at bardenclayshoot.co.uk or email [email protected] to get involved.

Event Details & Specifications

• Event Name: Barden Clay Shoot
• Location: Near Leyburn, North Yorkshire
• 2026 Event Date: Sunday, 28 June 2026
• Beneficiary Charity: Support Dogs
• Total Raised Since Inception: Approx. £300,000
• Organisers: The Birch Family (since 2008)
• Team Structure: Teams of four
• Team Entry Fee: £500
• Top Prize: £1,000
• Target Requirement: 15 additional teams needed urgently
• Registration Website: bardenclayshoot.co.uk
• Contact Email: [email protected]