Gainsborough Snappers began the new year with a celebration of the old, when 24 members met to take part in the competition for the best overall photographer of 2018. This year, for the first time, they were challenging for the Alan Townsend Memorial Trophy, named in honour of their late tutor, friend and leader.
Seventeen members had submitted a set of three mounted images each for judging. The unenviable task of choosing a winner fell to guest judge Mr John Whaler from Lincoln. His task was to select the set which showed the most skill across a range of styles of photography. He made a number of constructive comments as he reviewed each image, working through them in their sets.
Following a break, John picked out his favourite four sets and from those awarded joint second place to Pat Oaks, Alan Pinder and John Turner, with Des Lloyd as the winner.
Des was presented with the trophy by Pat Townsend, who has donated it to the club to be competed for annually in memory of her late husband. Des also received an engraved trophy which he keeps to mark his achievement in winning the annual competition for the second successive year.
Gainsborough Snappers now runs as a self-help group. Members have planned a variety of field trips, practical and informative sessions which will be included in their programme of activities for the coming months. They also have a weekly photography challenge with a set topic to photograph and present to fellow members.
The club welcomes any photography enthusiasts who want to join a friendly group and work on their techniques and anyone with photographic skills or expertise they could offer the group on an occasional basis.
Members meet at St George’s Church Hall on Fridays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm unless otherwise advertised. Please check their new website, www.snappers.org.uk, to ensure they are not on a trip before you come along. Meetings cost £2.50 per person which includes refreshments.