On the 4th of December, I received the very sad and stunning news that Neil Brown had died suddenly.

 For those that knew Neil, it was all the more surprising, as he appeared to us all as such an energetic character [and too young looking for his age!].

  I first met Neil in 1993 when I joined the Victory Airgun Club of which he was a member. I made the mistake of arriving with a spring rifle equipped with a telescopic sight and in .22 as well!!  Neil suggested that I join him on a Sunday morning, where I would be able to use this to the best advantage. This was my introduction by Neil to the sport of Field Target Shooting.

 Neil was always helpful to all that joined Castle and was the ideal ambassador for the sport. This has been proved over the years, as we have remained one of the largest F.T.Clubs in the country. I would be the first to admit that his previous role as Secretary to Castle would be a very hard act to follow. Neil carried out this duty faithfully for 19 years.

 His quiet nature concealed that of a very knowledgeable person. He was very well read on the subject of World War 2 aircraft and enjoyed his annual visits to the airshows in Cambridgeshire. [Neil served in the R.A.F. during the atomic tests in the 1950's.]

 In his final years, Neil decided that the purchase of a narrowboat and the sedate life this brought was the way to live. We missed his company as he explored the canals of England during the Summer months, returning finally to Field Target in the Autumn.

 It goes without saying that Neil will be sorely missed by all at our club and we convey our condolences to his wife Janet.

                                                           

                                                              Stephen Cope.

                                                                       Secretary. Castle F.T.A.R.C.