AN EAST Lothian shooter reflected on an “absolutely amazing” experience as he made his international bow at the weekend.

Murray Thomson, from East Linton, wore Scotland team colours for the first time in the Home International, which took place to the south of Dublin.

The 31-year-old and his Scotland colleagues finished in fourth place overall and Thomson was “delighted” with his performance.

He told Courier Sport: “It was brilliant.

“It was quite a tough course but it was a great experience – we were quite pleased with our performance [as a team] and I am pleased with how I did.

“I was nine or 10 shots off where I would’ve liked to have been but it was my first competition and I was well aware of that – I tried not to be, but it was an emotional experience.”

The former rugby player and boxer, who helped set up East Lothian Amateur Boxing Club, admitted that joining the country’s elite shots was a dream come true.

Thomson added: “I was sitting in the room with some of the best shooters in the UK and to think it was me who was wearing the Scotland shirt was quite emotional.

“I thought that once I had done it I’d be happy, but it’s definitely made me want it again and again.”

The former North Berwick High School pupil also set his sights on improved performances, having tested himself against this year’s eventual winner – England’s Josh Bridges.

He said: “We were neck-and-neck for a while but he pulled away from me.

“He was wonderful to watch.”

Thomson is preparing to marry his partner Louise Kelly next year, and is hoping to secure sponsorship to allow him to compete in 12 months’ time.

He added: “Most of the English guys have major sponsors so they can dedicate more time to it – not like the rest of us who have to work 9-5.

“Getting a sponsor is one of my goals for next season, definitely.”

Anyone who can help Murray out can contact him by emailing murraythomson86@gmail.com