John, Where in the UK do you live? I have relatives over in the north of England (Lancashire). I've been numerous times to England and have travelled around the UK during the past 18 years. My wife is from Manchester.
I know what life is like over there for many people: crime: burglaries (home/shed/auto/ etc.), vandalism, and rising gun violence in spite of extreme gun control/gun confiscation laws, citizens unable to defend themselves inside their own homes, intersection cameras and speed cameras throughout the country, the welfare state growing and taxes at obscene levels. A proper police state is well on it's way!
I really have a hard time comprehending the logistical nightmare that must currently exist for a law abiding UK subject in obtaining such a rifle. Do they require you to secure any long arms in a gun safe? With rampant burglaries I would bet yes. DO they require club membership in an official organization? I thought that they did at one time.
My father in law (who died 3 years ago) was a WWII combat veteran who served 6 years in the British 1st Airborne. He was one of the lucky ones to get out of Arnhem alive. His country denied him the right to own handguns. His home has been repeatedly burgled, his car stolen 3 times. What a f*cking disgrace!
Anyway, I wish you luck in your quest in this matter. You have a tough uphill battle and a country where public sentiment, as well as a hostile left wing media, are against you. Here's a quote that should be drilled into the brains of your countrymen:
They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.
— Benjamin Franklin
Good luck John. If you ever visit the States then you'll find the folks would be happy to expand your shooting horizons. Good luck & best wishes.
John F.