MEMBERS of the Mid-Cheshire Camera Club came together in Winsford to celebrate their 40th anniversary.

The occasion was marked by the unveiling of a 40th anniversary photo-book comprising of 125 images from current members spanning work from the 1980s through to 2015.

One founding member plus several long-standing members also cut a 40th anniversary cake.

The Mid-Cheshire Camera Club began with around a dozen members under the name of the Winsford Camera Club. They held their inaugural meeting in Winsford Library in 1976.

Ray Hill, chairman of The Mid-Cheshire Camera Club, said: “My aim during my three year term has been to provide a relaxed and stimulating environment to help members to improve and most importantly, enjoy their photography.

“Here’s to the next forty years.”

Much has changed at the club over the years, particularly with the transition to digital.

Back when the club started, founding members would process their own film developing in the club’s dark room.

This is a stark contrast to today’s members, who use computer software such as Photoshop.

Despite spanning four decades, the club is stronger than ever.

Ken Hewitt, club spokesman, said: “Membership has fluctuated over the years and currently stands at a comfortable 40.

“And thanks to the steady hand of club Treasurer Nick Harris, it has never been more financially healthy.”

Chris Prior, a member since 1992, said the club’s website has helped draw in new members in recent years.

He added that the club’s programme is much more varied than it has in years gone by, with lecturers providing lots of tips and techniques for those honing their craft.

Paul Wilcock, who joined in October 2015, said: “I wish I had joined years ago as it is making me think about my photography in ways I would never have dreamed of.

“Thanks to the regular competitions where judges critique and score members’ images I now seriously consider subject matter, composition, lighting and what I can do once I have taken the shot to make it really stand out.

“Mid-Cheshire Camera Club members have made me very welcome and I look forward to learning even more from the many experienced photographers within the club.”

The Mid-Cheshire Camera Club meet every Wednesday evening at 7.45pm at the Dingle Recreation Centre. For more information, visit midcheshirecameraclub.org