The Society of Archers goes back to 1673 when its first sporting event is recorded. The Scorton Arrow competition had been held since that date and by its rules can only be shot for in Yorkshire and Teeside.

The attraction of this annual event led to the formation of both the Richmond Archers, in Yorkshire, and the Darlington Archers in Co. Durham, the former in 1755 (if not before) and the latter in 1758.

The rules are set out or parchment of that date and kept at the Leeds Armouries. Competitors are required to become Members of the Society of Archers prior to taking part in the tournament and agree to abide by the Rules of the Society. Participating Archers have to share in the expenses of the shoot in addition to the advertised registration fee. The targets are set at 100 yards and the main Winner, the Captain, is the first Archer to pierce a small 3 inch diameter black spot in the centre of the 4 foot target with his Arrow.

Each Archer shoots one arrow at a range of hundred yards until one of them places arrow in the gold and is awarded the silver arrow for the year. This competition known as the ancient Scorton Arrow dates back to this event. The silver arrow was donated by John Wastrell of the Manor house, Scornton. The rules stipulate that the competition must be held annually and can only take place in Yorkshire. The winner each year nominates the venue for the following year. It is the responsibility of the Society of Archers to ensure the perpetuity of the tournament in the same time-honoured way adhering to the codes and practises of our gentlemen archer forbearers.

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