EYES were firmly fixed on flying targets at the Whitfield Clay Shoot last weekend, which saw more than 400 competitors line-up over two days.

But after the shooting was over, competitors rallied round in support of Whitfield Primary School, which has faced an uncertain two years as a result of seven damning Ofsted reports.

The 250-year-old school was granted a stay of execution last week, when Northumberland County Council’s cabinet members voted unanimously to extend the consultation period on the school’s proposed closure.

It means Whitfield Primary, which supports 60 pupils, will remain fully operational when the next academic year gets under way in September.

Organisers are still counting the proceeds of the clay shoot, which is estimated at between £35,000 and £40,000.

Clay shoot chairman Stuart Maughan said a third of the money raised will go towards a community-backed campaign to save the school.

He said: “We always give a third of what we make to causes within the local community.

“Clearly the school is a concern for us all. It is vital to the community here and we wanted to do our bit at the weekend.”

The remainder of the funds raised will go to the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust and the Countryside Alliance.

Glorious sunshine greeted competitors at the annual clay shoot, which has grown into one of the biggest events of its kind in the country.

As always, it took place in the picturesque surroundings of the Whitfield Estates, made available by landowners John and Sarah Blackett-Ord, who are keen supporters of the event.

Held over 10 different stations, game flushes are simulated with clays travelling at the same height and speed as particular birds or animals.

Mr Maughan said it took place in a good spirit, with gamekeepers teaming up with occasional shooters.

He added: “We had 70 teams on Saturday and almost 70 teams on Sunday, so it was well-supported by people from near and far.

“The rivalry is friendly, and there was a nice atmosphere. People like to win, but there are prizes for different accomplishments and fund-raising is the main objective.

“For example, each stand has to be won by someone different, and that’s in keeping with the way the weekend works.

“We’re grateful for all the support, and it has been another success. Without the land being kindly provided by John and Sarah, I’m not sure where we’d be, and we also receive support from those involved with the Lambton Park clay shooting event in Durham.”

In previous years, the Whitfield Clay Shoot has supported many local causes, including the Heart of Gold campaign run by the Hexham Courant in conjunction with the Stephen Carey Fund.

The much-publicised appeal, in aid of 10 public access defibrillators for the Tynedale area, was started after Otterburn teenager Adam Stephen collapsed while playing football, and a defibrillator proved pivotal in saving his life.

Mr Maughan said that next year’s event is set to take place over the same weekend in May 2017.

To view results from last weekend’s event, and to follow the latest information, visit www.whitfieldclays.co.uk