Big Bash Battle of the Bullseyes
The Rotary Club of Whittlesey and the Rifle Club were both on target at the annual Whittlesey Big Bash (21/06/2026)
There was plenty of family fun, friendly competition and community spirit on show at this popular annual Whittlesey event.
Among the many attractions, the Rotary Club ran a darts-themed stall, with honorary youth ambassador and rising local darts star Mitchell Brightwell on hand to give tips as people of all ages and abilities stepped up to have a go. Some were aiming to be crowned the Big Bash VI darts champion, while others were simply looking for family bragging rights.
At just 17, Mitchell has already built an impressive record, including runner-up in the 2025 Fenland Grand Slam Youth title, Peterborough District Singles Champion, ADC Vault Champion and a quarter-finalist in the JDC Super 16.
The safety darts proved a new experience for many, but there were still some impressive scores and plenty of inventive techniques on display while helping raise money for good causes.
Meanwhile, Whittlesey Rifle Club, which along with the Rotary Club sponsors Mitchell, was also running one of its popular open days to support the event, with around 100 people, the youngest just three years old, taking the chance to try target shooting for themselves.
The day then built towards the Battle of the Bullseyes, where Mitchell and Rifle Club member Darshan Singh, known as Dash, went head-to-head across both disciplines to settle whether true precision belongs on the range or at the oche.
Round one took place at the Rotary stall, where Mitchell narrowly edged out Dash in the darts contest. Dash produced the standout moment of the day with a brilliant 180, the only maximum triple 20 scored during the whole event.
Dash’s 180 was enough, later in the day, to secure him the Big Bash VI darts title, while in the junior competition, Jaxon Feetham claimed the junior crown with a strong score of 97.
Round two of the Battle of the Bullseyes moved to the rifle range. It was the first time Mitchell had ever fired a rifle, but with one-to-one coaching and sight adjustment from club chairman David Ransome, he held his nerve and did just enough to stay ahead overall, winning the Battle of the Bullseyes.
The weather was kind and the event was very well attended. The Rotary Club of Whittlesey also sponsored Fen Hands who created a sensory room, alongside general children’s activities. The sensory room is a safe space for children with complex health issues, helping make the Big Bash an even more inclusive and enjoyable day for local families.
Rotarian Alan Bessant was also one of several local residents honoured with a prestigious High Sheriff award, recognising community work with Rotary, the Rifle Club and Saxongate Residents Group.
The High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, Francis Burkitt DL, joined by event organiser Robert Windle and the town’s Mayor Alex Miscandlon, remarked how impressed he was with the town and its strong sense of community, something clearly evident throughout the day, with great feedback from families and young people taking part.