SW Region News June 2026

South West Region news - June 2026 From the Steve Fairman It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today to tell you that I have sadly resigned my position as RO for the SW Region of the RPS after only 4 months in post. My resignation is largely because I have found that the role has been harder to manage alongside my other commitments than I had expected. I was also hugely disappointed by the recent decision to pause the Distinctions process. I am personally affected by this decision as I had completed an application for an ARPS, booked an assessment and completed an Advisory 1-1 when the decision was announced. I have found this disappointment difficult to manage alongside my responsibilities as RO. However, I want to stress that my resignation will have no impact on the Regional programme with the Sense of Place project, the upcoming studio session and many other exciting initiatives going ahead. The Regional Committee remains in place and will continue under new leadership. I am sure someone will be in touch shortly about arrangements moving forward. Finally, I want you to know that I am not resigning as an RPS member and will continue to take part in regional projects, including SoP, and offer to lead future TWTs locally, etc. I look forward to meeting many of you in person in future. Best regards, and happy photography! Steve The South West Region Committee wish to thank Steve most sincerely for his work during his time on the committee and taking on the Regional Organiser role. He pulled together a great programme for 2026 and established a new and energetic committee. Things seeemd to be going so well. However we respect his decision, but regret that we have lost a great RO. The Committee would also like to thank Dennis Knowles who resigned a couple of months ago as the Finance Officer. Over many years Dennis has fulfilled the role of Treasurer when the Digital Imaging group ran a Centre near Taunton. More latterly Dennis took over as the Finance Officer for the SW Region. We wish both good health, happiness and time to enjoy their photography.