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