Tuesday 28 April 2026
This was an opportunity to reflect on the season just ending and look ahead to the new season. 29 members joined the meeting (in-person and via Zoom).
On Tuesday we held our Annual General Meeting and Awards evening, reflecting on a successful and encouraging year for the club.
Membership
The club continues to thrive, with membership rising to 61 – a 14% increase on last year. We were especially pleased to welcome 18 new members, highlighting the club’s ongoing appeal to photographers at all levels. Participation across the programme remained strong, with competitions, meetings, and events well supported throughout the season.
Competitions
Competitions once again formed the backbone of the club’s activities.
- A total of 560 entries were submitted during the season, maintaining the high levels seen in recent years.
- Print entries saw a notable increase of around 20%, and overall image quality continues to improve.
The club ran / participated in 10 Internal competitions alongside 3 External events. A highlight of the year was our success in the Mix & Match competition, where Worthing narrowly secured victory against Southwick and Steyning in a closely fought and enjoyable contest.
The club also re-entered the Regnum Crouch competitions for the first time in several years. While results were modest, the experience provided valuable insight and will help strengthen future entries.
Finance
The Treasurer reported a strong financial turnaround, with the club moving from a deficit last year to a healthy surplus. This was driven by increased membership income, successful fundraising through raffles and auctions, and careful cost management.
As a result, the club is now in a stable position, allowing for potential investment in events, publicity, and new opportunities. As a result Membership fees will remain unchanged for the coming year.
Programme and Activities
As well as Competitions 2025/26 included 8 Talks, 6 Practical Workshops and many, many Outings.
Our plans for next season include an expanded speaker programme, continued workshops, and further development opportunities for members.
Promotions
The following members were recognised for their progress and achievements:
Beginners to Intermediate:
Peter Horsfield, Laurie Dean and David Parkinson
Intermediate to Advanced:
Howard Gibbs, Russell Field, Andrew Goodwin
Congratulations to all those promoted.
Looking Ahead
With a growing membership, strong finances, and improving standards of photography, the club is well positioned for the year ahead. Plans include expanding exhibitions, increasing community engagement, and enhancing the club’s online presence.
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards, celebrating another excellent year of photography here at Worthing Camera Club.
Award Winners
PDI Merit Awards:
Beginners – Peter Horsfield
Intermediate – Russell Field
Advanced – Nick Beardmore
Print Merit Awards:
Beginners – David Parkinson
Intermediate – Andrew Goodwin
Advanced – Linda Kristine
Annual PDI Awards:
General – Nikki Clarke
Landscape – Mirza Khurrum Baig
Mono – Mirza Khurrum Baig
Nature – John Nalaskowski
Portrait – Bob Tutt
Runner-up – Nikki Clarke
Overall Winner – Mirza Khurrum Baig
Annual Print Awards
General – Christine Hartley
Landscape – Howard Gibbs
Mono – Mirza Khurrum Baig
Portrait – Barry Chidlow
Overall Winner – Christine Hartley
Most Improved (Awarded by the Committee): Linda Kristine
Outstanding Service Awards
Kathie Bignell – The commendation recognises an individual who, through initiative and dedication, has introduced and led a new and engaging aspect of club activity over the course of the season.
Kathie proposed and established the Creative Group from the start of this season, an initiative that has encouraged members to explore and develop their creative editing skills in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Through the setting of monthly challenges, Kathie has provided both structure and motivation, enabling members of all abilities to participate and experiment with new ideas and techniques. Her carefully chosen themes have struck an effective balance between accessibility and challenge, helping to broaden the creative horizons of those involved.
In addition, Kathie has supported the group by sourcing and sharing a range of helpful YouTube tutorials, offering guidance and practical insight into different editing approaches. This has allowed members to build confidence and expand their skill sets, contributing to an increase in both engagement and the quality of creative work produced.
The success of the Creative Group is a direct reflection of Kathie’s enthusiasm, organisation, and commitment. Her efforts have added a valuable and enjoyable dimension to the club’s programme, and her contribution is greatly appreciated.
Barry Chidlow – The commendation recognises an individual who has given generously of his time and expertise in supporting and encouraging members at the early stages of their photographic journey.
Barry has played a key role in the development of the Beginners’ Group, offering both one-to-one and small group tuition tailored to the needs of individual members. His approachable manner and willingness to share knowledge have created a supportive learning environment in which members feel confident to ask questions and develop their skills.
Barry has led a range of practical and engaging sessions, including fungi photography in Slindon Woods, light painting on Goring beach as well as workshops on still life and chiaroscuro. These sessions have provided valuable hands-on experience, helping members to better understand both technical and creative aspects of photography.
In addition, Barry has consistently encouraged members to seek guidance whenever needed, making himself available outside of organised sessions and offering ongoing support and advice. This open and generous approach has been greatly valued by those he has helped.
The impact of Barry’s contribution is reflected in the growing confidence and ability of the Beginners’ Group. His dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to helping others have made a significant and much-appreciated difference to the club.