THE last official duty of outgoing chair of Powys County Council Beverley Baynham before vacating office last week was to present a Silver Kite award to freelance photojournalist Ernie Husson.

The renowned Llandrindod Wells newsman is retiring after more than 50 years’ service in Mid Wales supplying photographs and stories from the community to local newspapers. Ernie has been a fixture in Mid Wales ever since he moved to Llandrindod Wells in 1968 where he set up his photographic business, Marina Gallery, on Llandrindod’s Middleton Street.

During the presentation at the Hotel Metropole Councillor Baynham said: “Ernie has played an integral part in the community covering so many local events.

“Now he and his wife Pheone have decided to take a well-earned retirement and will be greatly missed by all those that know them. No-one will forget Ernie balanced at the top of a step ladder or stood on a chair with a camera to get the best photograph and Pheone trying to steady him and catch him if things went wrong.

“His skills with a camera will be sadly missed by the many clubs and associations that he has long served and given publicity to. Who could say that they have been to so many weddings and events in Powys for over 50 years?

“So, in recognition of over 50 years’ service in Powys Ernie, I present you with this Silver Kite award.” Also pictured is county councillor Jon Williams who nominated Ernie for the award and who has since been made the assistant vice chairman of Powys County Council.