American craze that’s taking city by storm

Bow Arrow Tag is described by game organisers as like paintball or dodgeball but with a bow and arrow.

Mix the skills of archery and the fast-paced qualities of an activity like laser tag, and you get the idea.

Organiser Jonathan Reynolds is behind the explosion of the trend in the city after seeing a gap in the market.

His company is running franchises of the game across the country but Brighton games are proving particularly popular.

The 34-year-old Bevendean entrepreneur was introduced to the idea by an American company and put his own twist on the concept to make it a success in the UK.

Ideal for groups, stag and hen weekends or children’s birthday parties, Mr Reynolds said it is the perfect fun, family activity which anyone over the age of seven can play.

He said: “It’s easy to play, fun and adrenaline-fuelled – and the whole family can play even grandparents with their grandchildren.

“My seven-year-old daughter is my best advocate. She loves it.

“It is particularly popular with parents because there are no games or batteries involved. It’s active and gives everyone a chance to exercise and get fresh air.

“I particularly think with summer coming up we will see even more of these games popping up in parks and outdoor spaces around Brighton.”

He said the games are easy to set up and leave no mess, so the parks are left as they are found.

He said: “Another benefit is it is extremely safe, and educational – it teaches teamwork and the skills of archery, like hand-eye co-ordination.”

Mr Reynolds brought the craze to Brighton a year ago and has seen a spurt in bookings from groups of all ages.

He said: “We offer discounts for school groups. It is a really good idea for children’s parties.”

A minimum of between eight and 12 people are needed for a game, which can include up to 150 participants.

It can take place in a space of 11 by 24 metres, such as tennis courts, halls, soft play areas, barns, or in parks, fields, car parks, woods or on beaches.