VB Rifle Ranges in Essex

The Volunteer Battalions used purpose built ranges at military establishments such as Colchester Barracks, Ranges operated by existing rifle clubs and a few used miniature rifle ranges sited within halls.

Where it was possible with the donation of land the preferred option was to develop their own local ranges which were more accessible for training sessions.

One of those that is still visible is the Kelvedon Hatch Volunteer Rifle Range which is on land near to Chivers Road, Kelvedon Hatch.

The site is known locally as the Elephants Hump referring to a large man made mound of soil at the range which provided the safety backstop to targets erected in front of the mound.

Another is the similar earth mound left near to Basin Road, Heybridge which is the remains of the range used by the 23rd VB of Maldon.

The 4th Chelmsford had a range constructed at Galleywwod by the well-known architect Frederick Chancellor.

 

Source ECC - Unlocking Essex's Past