Congratulations to local snapper Dave ‘Bodie’ Bolton who scooped ‘Photographer of the Year 2023’ at Tenby Camera Club’s annual awards presentation last week.

Tenby Camera Club held it’s ‘Awards and Social Evening’ on Thursday, June 22 - which was a well attended and pleasant night, with much laughter and convivial conversation.

Chairman Dave Lewis led the awards section, aided and abetted by Cheryl Hewitt and John Whitehurst.

It was inspiring for members to see all the images again which were of a superb standard.

“Well, what a night as they say - I went to the Tenby Camera Club presentation awards not allowing myself to think of any awards that might come my way as I didn't want feelings of disappointment if they didn't, but I am pleased to say that not only did I win the ‘Photographer of the Year’ but also the Ray Hine trophy,” remarked winner Dave, who also picked up six golds - both creative awards, the best mono, best macro, and 15 certificates of merit.

“To say I am chuffed is an understatement. Well done to all the other winners of the night and those who gave their time in organising it,” he added.

Dave Bolton Tenby shot
Dave often shares his wonderful images in the 'Picture This: Tenby Observer Photography Club' Facebook group; and also sells his images from The Nook store in Tenby (Dave Bolton Images)

Thanks go to Francis White (Internal Competition Secretary) who controlled all the internal competitions throughout the season.

After the awards members had an enormous buffet provided by all the attendees, served with tea and coffee, with thanks to Jo Wakeman and Mel Felton.

To relax afterwards, an excellent quiz was arranged to tax the brain cells. Many thanks to Neil Thomas for presenting and compiling the questions on Pembrokeshire, Photography and General Knowledge, which was fun.

Here is a summary of the main awards, with congratulations to all the winners:

Photographer of the Year - Dave Bolton.

Digital Photograph of the Year - Liz Wallis (with Mountain Hare).

Print Photograph of the Year - Gary Mayhew (Storm Brewing).

Ray Hine Memorial (most points in all the Open Competitions) - Dave Bolton.

Gold Medals were given to: Liz Wallis; Gill Mackay; John Whitehurst; Neil Thomas; Francis White; Dave Lewis; Gary Mayhew; Rob Cox; Jan Sullivan (2); Cheryl Hewitt (2); Charlie Kidd (2); Dave Bolton (6).

The Club restarts the new programme in September and welcomes new members, novices or experienced.

There is a Tenby Camera Club website so have a look and be tempted to join.