LONG-standing contributor to the Journal for the Norton Radstock Photographic Society Jenny Short has passed away after a short and sudden illness.

Jenny was always a happy and willing correspondent for the Journal sending in her reports on the society’s meetings but also supplying photos of Paulton Rovers for our sports pages.

Pamela Bruce Lockhart sent in the following tribute to Jenny on behalf of members of the Norton Radstock Photographic Society.

“It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of Jenny Short on Thursday, September 3, 2026, which happened to be the date of our first in-person meeting after the summer break.

Although we knew that her death was expected, it still came as a shock, and it was difficult to believe that someone who had been such an important part of our club for so many years was no longer with us.

Jenny was elected Chair in 2019 and became the backbone of the club; its inspiration, its driving force and the person who always seemed to have another idea to share.

She was a brilliant photographer, but never stopped wanting to learn and improve her skills. Whether it was still life, sport or any other genre that caught her interest, Jenny approached it with enthusiasm and a determination to do her very best. Her numerous competition successes are testament to her ability.

Jenny Short won the mono section with a portrait from the Midsomer Norton Wassail entitled “Melody in Monochrome”.
One of Jenny Short’s many photos featured in the Journal; a portrait from the Midsomer Norton Wassail entitled “Melody in Monochrome”. (Jenny Short)

She was hugely generous with her time and particularly supportive of new and inexperienced photographers.

Jenny encouraged us to experiment, to try something different and, most importantly, to enjoy the process. I don’t think any of us will forget the weird and wonderful props and gadgets she brought along to her practical evenings. There was always something new to try, accompanied by Jenny’s encouragement and enthusiasm, as we experimented, laughed and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

During lockdown, Jenny worked tirelessly to keep the club going at a time when many other clubs struggled or ceased to meet altogether. She organised online competitions, arranged feedback sessions and, whenever restrictions allowed, encouraged us to meet for walks. As I have said, she was the driving force behind the club, and her energy and commitment helped keep us connected during a very difficult time.

Jenny’s generosity and willingness to help extended well beyond our photography club. She freely gave her time, knowledge and advice to other organisations and institutions, all of whom will miss her greatly.

Jenny’s wish for us was to keep the club vibrant and thriving, but above all to support one another and to continue enjoying our photography. That is perhaps the greatest tribute we can give her.

Jenny may no longer be with us, but the influence she had on our club, the encouragement she gave to so many of us, and the memories she created will remain. She will be greatly missed and will certainly not be forgotten.”

Everyone from the Journal sends their sincere condolences to Jenny’s husband Frank and her extended family at this sad time.