Photography competition launched in memory of first Banbury Guardian photographer

Peter started work as the photographer for the Banbury Guardian in the early 1950s using a dark room at the paper's officers in Parsons Street to develop the photographs for the latest edition of the newspaper.

Relative and local business owner, Ronnie Johnson, said: "What a better memorial to the Banbury Guardian’s first ever photographer than an annual photography competition, allowing the Banbury locality to show their own skills and ability in the world of photography, with opportunities during the lockdown period around the home and garden or during an autumn walk or outdoor exercise.

"With these difficult times a nicely captured photo can tell many a story and lift the spirit during these challenging times.

"In the words of one of his colleagues at The Banbury Guardian 'Peter was innovative and had vision.' He always got a different photograph.

"Peter loved photography, the social side of life and would have been truly chuffed at this competition recognition, which will hopefully shine some light and added interest on these dark winter nights.

"Without doubt, with his death seven years ago Banbury lost a renowned photographer and a true character whose skill and passion for photography will be remembered with this newly created annual competition backed by his family of eight children."

The panel of judges will be looking for that special touch with the ultimate winner receiving a £100 prize and a trophy. There will be a runners up prize of £50 and a trophy for area photography enthusiasts.

Anyone interested in submitting an entry can send them to the following email: [email protected].

People must include the following information with each photograph entry, which includes name, address and contact number. To be eligible to enter the competition each person must be aged 18 or over and live within a 20-mile radius of Banbury.

The deadline date for entries to be submitted is December 31.

Julie Buckland, Pete’s eldest daughter, said: "Dad would have loved the idea of getting people involved in this competition, especially during these difficult times and we look forward to receiving the entries in the coming weeks."