DARWEN Civic Society will base its annual photographic exhibition on 'Darwen's best features' this year.

In contrast to last year's exhibition which highlighted the town's grot spots, the society wants to show what Darwen has to offer. An invitation has gone out to all amateur photographers to record on film an example of what they like best about their town.

It is the society's 17th annual photographic competition and will form part of its community events. The aim is to encourage people of any age to look clearly at the subject. Entries can be in colour or black and white but must be prints not slides. There will be prizes of £30, £25 and £20 in the senior section, which is above 16 years, and £20, £15 and £12 for the junior sections, which are up to 11 and 11 to 16 years.

There will also be a special prize for each school which takes part in the competition. Winning prints and a selection of entries will be on display in Darwen Library exhibition room from June 19 to July 9. Winners will receive their prizes on June 23.

All entries should be sent to Darwen Library reception desk by June 14. Everyone who enters should fix their name, address and telephone number and age if under 16 to the back of the print. Forms are also available from the library and Darwen Town Hall.