Britain's oldest black and white photography club, based on the Powys and Herefordshire border, is urgently appealing for new members to secure the club's future.

The Border Monochrome Camera Club is a small group of amateur and enthusiast photographers who live in the Border counties of Powys and Herefordshire.

It is the oldest camera club in the UK dedicated to monochrome work and was formed in 1976.

It currently has eight members.

The club has witnessed a steady transition from traditional photographic processes to modern digital imaging. Its members continue to represent both approaches but share a common interest in valuing the appeal of a well-produced photographic print rather than just a computer image.

Chairman Clive Clarke said: "The club is looking for an injection of new, keen, dedicated photographers of all abilities, working in the monochrome medium.

"At the moment we have several regular members and in the past at least half a dozen of our members have gone on to be professional photographers.

"Members benefit from not only monthly internal competitions and a lively exchange of ideas, but also competitions against other clubs, plus a three month – June to August – themed exhibition at the Burton Hotel and Cloud Nine leisure facility in support of the annual Kington Town Festival.

"Dark room facilities are available, as well as studio lights, large free standing display boards, and 60 20x16 quality aluminium frames, offering members 365 days to display their work and therefore lots of potential to sell their photographs.

"We would welcome anyone interested in monochrome photography, whether they are complete beginners or more experienced."

A meal and a photographic competition was recently held at the Burton Hotel.

The theme for the competition was members' best photograph taken in the last 12 months and the judge for the evening was talented photographer Leslie Jarrett.

The winning photograph was taken by Margaret Woolley of Mid Wales with Antony Williams from Painscastle in second place and Dainis Ozols also from Painscastle third.

Margaret and Antony were also jointly named the Photographer of the Year after the points from all competitions held during the year were calculated.

The club holds regular meetings on the first Friday of each month at 7.30pm at the Burton Hotel in Kington.

The current membership subscription is £20 per year.

For more information call in at the next club meeting or contact Clive Clarke on (01544) 230210 or visit www.bordermonochrome.co.uk.