Bisley, Surrey
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The village of Bisley, in Surrey, England, is well known to rifle marksmen around the world. Once a tiny and inconspicuous hamlet in the Surrey heathland, its fortunes changed in 1890 when the UK's National Rifle Association Championships moved there from Wimbledon. The competition is hosted by the NRA on its Bisley ranges - land owned by the Ministry of Defence, and also providing a base for the Royal Logistic Corps. Bisley hosted all the shooting for the 2002 Commonwealth Games. During the 2012 Olympic Games the shooting will be held at the Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich.
The village’s origins date back centuries. It lies on the edge of the Chertsey Abbey estate, and the 13th century church was donated to the village by the Abbey monks over 600 years ago. It features a medieval bell and a 15th century porch which is said to have been built from a single oak tree.
A nearby spring was once known as the 'Holy Well of St John the Baptist', and was said to have medicinal powers. Its waters were used for local baptisms until the early 20th century.
Bisley's immediate neighbours are West End, Chobham and Knaphill.
Actor Barry Evans grew up here.
Bisley is also home to Bisley Primary School. This school is situated in the centre of the village and its logo is a frog.
Bisley is also home to the 'Almac' Band. This is a brass band which plays in villages surrounding Bisley and Bisley itself at fairs and festivals such as the Strawberry Fair, on the village green.
