Below is the extract from the official citation for the award which was given at the BFFS Spring Viewing session at the National Film Theatre in London on Saturday 6 March 1999.  Our Chairman, Heather, was there to collect the award.

The judges were impressed by the general level of entries this year with many societies showing evidence of good solid work. Although the number of entries was on about par with recent years, we are sure that many societies are still hiding their efforts and results under a bushel and would encourage you all to enter. You never know but what you are doing probably deserves wider recognition. Our other comment relates to the fact that, as will be evidenced by the geographical spread of winning societies there was a strong regional factor, with again Scotland and the South West providing a heavy number of entries - we look to the Midlands, East and Wales to show evidence of their societies in the future. 

This is the fiftieth Spring Viewing Sessions - a long time but not as long as some film societies have been in operation. Keeping a film society going and viable over such a period is an achievement in itself. So much has changed in the film world in that period of time. Our Film Society of the Year is such a society but as with many long established operation, had encountered many difficulties, ranging from venue, finance, membership and the inevitable sense of inertia just to keep going.  Operating on 16mm with nineteen commercial screens in town a falling membership it would have been easy to give in - but through new blood on the committee to supplement experienced one, a fresh approach, drive, initiative and lots of hard work this society has pulled itself round astonishingly - they increased their membership by 23%; improved their financial position to the tune of nearly £900; added an extra programme to the season; enjoyed the best reactions to their films and best support to their social activities.  Whilst maintaining traditional things such as reactions, comments to films, wine and cheese events, their promotion and publicity has embraced everything through poster displays through the town, newspaper and radio to delivery of publicity by bicycle on the one hand and the creation of their own web-site on the other.  Programme material is simple but elegant and their choice of films commendable, even including some shorts. Neither are they sitting back on their laurels, exploring video projection and the possibility of 35mm.  An inspirational entry by a society which has never entered for these awards before ! 

Film Society of the Year - Cheltenham 

Judges Peter Cargin/Dudley Smithers - BFFS Management Committee