Law firm hits the target with archery sponsorship

On target: Archer Andrew Rycroft who has won several contests and is sponsored by Ellis Jones Solicitors.

A South coast law firm has added another string to its bow by sponsoring a top archer.

Ellis Jones Solicitors is backing Andrew Rycroft who has hit the bullseye with numerous wins and placings at events across the UK.

The 57-year-old, who also happens to be Ellis Jones’ Systems Administrator, is the holder of three county records in Dorset.

He was also first in the Gents Freestyle category of the 2014 South West Crown and runner-up the following year.

Other successes have included being placed fourth in the UK Nationals (Freestyle – Gents) and third place in the Scottish Nationals.

Andrew, an Archery GB Level 1 coach, will be competing in Derbyshire, North Wales and London over the coming months.

The father-of-two took up the sport, initially target archery, in 2007.

He swapped to field archery, which involves shooting at targets of varying and often unmarked distance, typically in woodland and rough terrain, in 2012.

“I shoot for the fun and pleasure of it and have a lot of fun taking part in competitions around the country,” said Andrew, who lives in Broadstone.

He added: “It’s a real test of skill but when you’re out in woodland getting close to nature, there really is nothing better.”

Ellis Jones’ sponsorship includes replacing Andrew’s arrows which can cost up to £250. Arrows tend to suffer wear and tear due to the type of environments the events are held in.

“I didn’t expect the firm to be back me so I’m really grateful,” said Andrew.

Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, said: “We are proud of Andrew’s sporting success and delighted to support him.

“Andrew plays a key part in making sure that Ellis Jones functions efficiently on a day to day basis. His role demands that he keeps a cool head and steady hand under pressure – skills which are undoubtedly transferable from the success which he has achieved in his demanding sport. We wish Andrew a successful season.”

Note to journalists: Ellis Jones is one of the largest law firms in Dorset and West Hampshire with more than 140 staff including 12 partners. It has offices in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs (Poole), Ringwood, Swanage and London offering a wide range of services to individuals and businesses.

For more details, please contact: Andrew Diprose, Director, Deep South Media Ltd, on 01202 534487.