As your new President it is with pleasure and pride that I introduce this exciting programme for 2012 and I extend a warm welcome to both new and returning members.

2011 was yet another good year for the Society – healthy membership numbers, a great programme of club nights and many other photography activities and opportunities, too numerous to list here, that were both enjoyable and instructive. There really was plenty for everyone.

We also saw our members achieving unprecedented success in Internationals and there was an increased interest in gaining Distinctions. Who knows where this may lead?

Our warmest thanks must go to my predecessor, David Trout LRPS, who has not only presided over two great years for the Society but has led from the front with the excellence of his own photography. Also to the talented and dedicated committee and legion of volunteer members who make the running of such a big club possible.

2011 was also the year we were able to commit to the major investment of a new projector and laptop able to do justice to the new projected images standard of 1400x1050 px and we will see the benefit in 2012.

We can look forward to 2012 with confidence and keen anticipation. We know the programme will be exceptional. We know there will be many opportunities for photography on assignments and other outings. There will be exhibitions, competitions, portfolio groups, digital workshops and more. Being a member will continue to give us access to a massive talent bank of expert fellow members happy to help if we need it, and to the friendships and camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Most of all, there will be new photography from our undoubtedly superb photographers. Who knows what they will come up with? ... I for one can hardly wait to see.

Finally, one of the many enjoyable tasks for your President is to decide the set subject for the time honoured ‘Fillingham Trophy’. With 2012 being London Olympics year it has to be, “This Sporting Life” which lends itself to everything from serious sports photography, whether elite or grass roots, to English irony and humour.

Tony Griffiths