Joy Arnold's "Ode to The Oxford Gun Company" - Feb 24th 1991

My Christmas present was a big surprise.
A nicer alternative than the hot air rise.
Something I've never done before
Is to shoot all day with the twenty bore.

It was cold and grey that winter morn
When I left home all snug and warm.
I met others there with the same intention,
Full of excitement and apprehension.

The welcome was warm at Jericho Farm,
We listened carefully, there came no harm,
Go past the bum, the belly, beak and bang,
Whilst above our heads the clays all sang.

Head down and lift that gun,
Leg straight, stick out your bum,
Lean forwards, you will not fail.
The clays won't come until you call.

Warm up with a lovely meal
Then hit a pigeon and a teal.
As birds fly over giving fright
I need to get twelve inches right.

Hold tight the gun and you won't bruise,
Forget the mud above your shoes.
Some you hit and some you miss,
Smoke the birds for perfect bliss.

So, many thanks to Shirl and Doug
For all their trouble and hard slog.
It's a fabulous day, I learnt a lot
And I think I'm now a better shot.

Joy Arnold... Feb 24th 1991