An Andover dad has swapped bricks for bullets as he sets up the area’s first shop for air rifle afficionados.

Andy Ruddick, who worked in the building trade for thirty years, set up his own shooting range in his garden during lockdown, which was a big hit with his four children.

After trying to look for a shop to get supplies for his backyard range, he found there were no options available, and so decided to strike out on his own with his new venture.

Andy told the Advertiser that he has had a lot of interest so far, and has “enjoyed the challenge of creating something a bit different.

His shop, Targets & Tins, was officially launched on April 12 and is a family venture run by Andy, his wife Zoe and his 20-year-old son, Tyler.

It is part of the Lains shooting ground, near Thruxton Motorsport Centre, which was set up in 2006.

Tyler said he was challenging himself with his new business, adding: “I am loving meeting new people and learning as I go”.

The range offers people off all ages and abilities the chance to shoot a variety of state-of-the-art air rifles, including sniper rifles, pistols, and even night vision technology.

It also stocks a wide variety of guns and accessories for sale for anyone over 18 with many plans on the horizon including a hiring service and family fun days.

He said: “We have had a lot of interest so far, with lots of parents coming with their kids. Air rifles are obviously dangerous if used unsupervised, but we offer the people the chance to hone their skills in a completely safe environment”.

Andy has been surprised by the range of people who have visited so far.

“Shooting is sometimes seen as a bit of an old man’s sport, but we have had all kinds of people come in which is great to see.”

The range is located at Lains shooting ground, just off the A303 near Thruxton. For more information, visit: targetsandtins.co.uk