Costs too are critical as we have no sponsors and the funds to operate the festival have to come from ticket sales and raffles alone and it is always a fine balancing act with income and outgoings being finely balanced to within just a few pounds either way.

Finding a suitable and affordable venue has also been an important factor and the flooding of our small theatre setting in 2010 almost spelled the end, though a last minute internet search actually revealed a much better location at a slightly increased cost.

Ticket prices have to be reasonable, but also must recoup all the expenses of holding the show.

On the other hand, it seems to be a popular event and for an independent regional festival it has been well supported in the past and many film makers have attended time and time again. Many other film makers living at all points of the UK have also supported us by entering their movies.

In the past we have been able to secure the services of respected judges for the competitions and the quality of films has always been very high, resulting in a first class festival show.

"Free time" has just not been available to set up an event for 2011 and once again we have to consider all options as to it`s future. But a telephone call from one of our regulars asking if we were to hold the competition this year has prompted this update and some kind of announcement.

Current thinking is that we may hold the competition and festival again in 2012 though nothing had been booked as far as a venue is concerned nor have any definite decisions been made. Much will depend on what is possible cost wise and finding available free time to plan and run the competition and of course we have to be able to find the judges.