A clay pigeon shoot on the Englefield Estate parkland has raised an impressive £29,000 to improve the futures of disadvantaged young people.

A total of 84 guests took part in the fifth Prince’s Trust Shooting Challenge on Friday, June 9, with 21 teams of four guns shooting five simulated clay sporting drives, each replicating different species of game birds.

After a morning of exhilarating shooting, a drinks reception and a three-course lunch, the teams helped to boost the fundraising total through an auction.

The shooting was run by The Really Wild Clay Company from The Royal Berkshire Shooting School, who pride themselves on guaranteeing a challenging day’s shooting.

The Prince’s Trust is the UK’s leading youth charity, working with disadvantaged young people between the ages of 13 and 30 to help them overcome adversity and forge positive futures.

Since 2013, £184,000 has been raised through the shoots with all funds spent on supporting disadvantaged young people get into education, training or employment.

Laura Gammage, senior head, regional private sector fundraising for the south and Wales, said: “The money raised will go directly towards supporting young people on Prince’s Trust programmes, helping them to build their confidence and self-esteem, gain new skills and improve their employability.

“Last year over 58,000 young people took part in our programmes. We are thrilled that three in four young people went on to get a job, returned to education or training, began regular volunteering or started their own business.

“This year we hope to reach even more young people to help them move towards a brighter future. We are hugely grateful to the Benyon family and to event sponsors, LGT Vestra.”