Big Shots, the furnishing industry’s much-loved clay pigeon shoot, principally sponsored by Furniture Village in aid of The Furniture Makers’ Company, celebrated its 30th anniversary in style, raising a record-breaking £46,000.
Held on Wednesday 11th June at the Holland & Holland shooting grounds in Northwood, Middlesex, the milestone event brought together over 160 industry professionals for a day of sport, camaraderie and charitable giving – all in support of people from the trade facing hardship, and to inspire new talent entering the industry.
Kicking off with breakfast, the day got under way with a blast from Holland & Holland’s antique cannon, before teams made their way around 10 shooting stands set across 60 acres of countryside. Alongside the main 100-bird competition, guests tested their skills on novelty stands such as flash clays and the ever-popular eight-straight stand.
Following a three-course lunch and drinks reception, the celebrations continued with an auction and charity raffle, including a special prize donated by Hypnos – a wine collection worth over £2000 – and the wine pull, where guests paid for a mystery bottle "ranging from fine vintage to cheeky plonk".
Among the competition, several shooters stood out: Top Gun Male, Tom Prestwich (Belfield Group) – 106 points; Top Gun Female, Nicky Hutten (Minotti) – 81 points; Top Gun Novice, Jack Cochrane (Furniture Village) – 89 points; Top Team, The Fighting Twenty Fifth (RAF) – 431 points; Runner Up Team, Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 405 points; Top Novice Team, Clay-Z and the Snipers (Furniture Village) – 378 points; and Four Man Flurry Winners, Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 83 points.
Special mentions also went to: Worst Male Shot: Billy Sanchez (Furniture Village) – 29 points; and Worst Female Shot: Susie Bartlett (Furniture Village) – 28 points.
Charlie Harrison, MD at Furniture Village, says: “It was a fantastic way to mark 30 years of Big Shots – a brilliant event full of friendly competition and an incredible fundraising total. We’re proud to continue supporting an industry charity that means so much to us all.”
Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture Makers’ Company, adds: “Big Shots is always a highlight of the year, and this year’s 30th anniversary was truly exceptional. Thank you to everyone who took part, donated, and helped us raise a record £46,000. Your generosity helps us continue our essential work across the industry.”
Special thanks go to all event sponsors and supporters, including Biglight, Blum UK, Bodahl Mobler ApS, Brave Bison, Buoyant Upholstery, Castelan Group, Celtheath, Colourfast, Davy’s, Emmiera Group, Ercol, Furniture Village, Holland & Holland, Hydeline, Hypnos, London School of Furniture, Luke Macdonald of Sworders, MasterSofa, Minotti, RAF 25(F) Squadron, Tempur UK and Whitemeadow Furniture.
The 31st edition of Big Shots will take place on Wednesday 10th June 2026.
