Friday 23rd February and Ards Camera Club went into Battle for a second time this season. This time, it was the Annual Print Battle against City of Belfast Photographic Society. Ards were the hosts and although the visiting support from Belfast was a bit thin on the ground, their arsenal of competing images was impressive. These images were pitted against the selection that produced the decisive victory for Ards at Westcourt earlier in February.

Back in the mists of time, City of Belfast evolved from Belfast YMCA and the Print Battle with Ards was for the Beginner's Trophy. However, as the Beginners developed into seasoned photographers the Trophy retained its title, but continued to be competed for at a general club level.

Guest judge was John Belshaw who had the unenviable task of critiquing and scoring the competing thirty colour images and thirty black and white images. A difficult job at the best of times, but as usual on such occasions, there was a modicum of suggested assistance from the 'experts' in the auditorium which as usual was totally ignored by the experienced and battle hardened John.

After much consideration and a break for tea and cake to mark Keith's Birthday, the scores were counted and agreed. Ards proved too strong for their gallant opponents from Belfast and were declared winners and retained the much coveted Trophy.

Much thanks to Honor Ross and Peter Knott for their input to the Print Battle on behalf of City of Belfast Photographic Society and to John Belshaw for judging, especially as he agreed to be the judge at short notice.

Saturday 24th February was NIPA Competition Round 4 Adjudication at Strabane and District Camera Club. Congratulations to David Williamson and Ted McKee who achieved star status for their images. Also, well done and thanks to those members who made the long journey to Strabane as representatives of the Club.