Now I’m in the 2nd half of my year as President, it’s time for reflection. Digital projection is having a greater impact on club life, so how do you feel about inter-club digital competitions ? I know some clubs have already taken this step forward. Later this year, I would like to suggest that we venture into Inter- Federation competitions with our neighbouring Feds.

I have had the pleasure of presenting Roll of Honour certificates to Tony Cook of Southampton CC and recently to Pat Verge of Woolston CC. Pat was for more than 20 years involved with Solent for the Handicapped Camera Club. This club was a way of life for Pat. In addition to her photographic skills, she held many positions on their club committee. Those of us who judged or lectured at the club were able to appreciate the special needs of the severely disabled, where Pat gave her time and help to those less fortunate.

We still need a Treasurer, a Competition Secretary, and an Exhibition Secretary. Geoff Kelland is willing to continue as Assistant Exhibition Secretary by preparing layouts, producing catalogues etc. Help will be given with all jobs from existing position holders and other Council members.

The Exhibition was judged by Ann Smith. ARPS of the Surrey Fed. Our judge took her time in reaching her decisions to select the winning panels and individual awards, and I think she made the right choices. I would like to thank the Council members and the club members from all over the Federation who arrived on ‘Hanging Day’ to assist. Preplanning helps to make the hanging so much easier, thanks to Geoff Kelland and his willing assistants, who started the preparation on judging day in December.

By the time this is published, we will have had our 2nd SPF Print Championship. 19 Clubs will have participated.

Six PAGB Distinctions have been awarded following the Assessment Day at Harrow. I had the privilege of presenting three of them at the opening of the Exhibition…..CPAGB’s to Mary Stallard of Woolston CC. and Gillian Thatcher of Havant CC., and DPAGB to Alex Fyfe, ARPS of Winchester PS. In addition other SPF members gaining awards were …..CPAGB in prints to Patricia Platt of OSPS, and Sheila Birch of Jersey PC. and to Steve Le Provost of Prism PC of Guernsey, the DPAGB.

Finally, I’m looking forward to the Judging Workshop which will be held in March. Don’t miss it.

Happy snapping.
Jack Whitemore. President SPF.