THE most inspirational photographer was honoured at a special meeting of the Andover Photographic Club last month.

Mayor of Test Valley Councillor Martin Hatley presented club chairman Steve Govan with the Sandy Wilson Award.

The late Sandy Wilson was a stalwart of the club inspiring and mentoring many local photographers. Sandy made a bequest to the club, which is now used to fund an award in his memory.

In keeping with his contribution to the club, the award is made to the individual voted by members to be the most inspirational that season.

Steve thanked Cllr Hatley for the award and spoke of how honoured he was to have received the trophy and to have it presented by him.

Richard James, vice chair of the club, said: “The aim of the Andover Photographic Club is to provide a friendly, stimulating and inclusive environment to encourage photographers of all levels of ability to enjoy what they do and to support them in acquiring new skills and meeting new friends.”

Cllr Hatley spoke of how pleased he and his wife were to have been invited to the club’s weekly meeting and how inspired he had been by the evening’s presentation and by the quality of images displayed by members at their recent biennial exhibition held at the Museum of the Iron Age Andover.

Members expressed their thanks to the mayor and mayoress for their good company and honouring the club with their attendance.

Andover Photographic Club supports film and embraces the digital age. Each year’s programme of events includes skill learning sessions in colour, monochrome and digital photography with talks and demonstrations from visiting professionals. Many of their members draw their enjoyment solely from the wide range of speakers and seeing the work of others. For those who wish to submit their work for assessment the Club provides a wide range of club and inter-club competitions.

The club runs a programme of practical learning and hands-on sessions, and has a regular presence at community events.