This evening, we once again honour the life and work of the outstanding freelance cameraman Rory Peck who died six years ago whilst on assignment in Moscow. We are particularly pleased that Newsforce, committed to the Trust since the start, has decided to be this year's sponsor. It is an enormous vote of confidence.

Many thanks to the excellent team that has produced this evening's event. With entries of very high quality and a breath-taking selection of finalists, tonight will provoke discussion in a wider sense for days to come. Among the broadcasters profiling our work, BBC World's In The Firing Line presented by Nik Gowing, and commissioned by Rachel Attwell, again allows the freelancers an international platform. Sales of last year's programme by the indefatigable Nic van Zwanenberg have given us much welcome extra revenues. This year, giving the Trust its highest UK profile yet, David Lloyd at Channel Four Television has commissioned a series of shorts featuring the Awards and the work of the Trust. These will be shown in the three minute slot after Channel Four News and will run for five nights starting on October 25th. Meanwhile, US interest in our work continues to grow. MSNBC are featuring the finalists on their video gallery and earlier this year, the US network Fox broadcast a fast-moving account of freelancers and the work of the Rory Peck Trust.

As well as keeping to its main remit - helping the dependents of freelancers killed whilst on assignment - the Trust continues to grow in scope. To the freelancer in a remote location, the Trust provides a reliable and friendly flow of information and advice. To those seeking help with training or insurance, the Trust gives guidance. Other worthwhile initiatives include the discussion paper assessing the value of freelance rights on the internet. Many thanks here to Yvonne White.

The Trust operates all year round supporting the freelance effort. The engine is driven by our highly effective director Tina Carr and her assistant Catriona Combe in a tiny office in Paddington. The Rory Peck Trust can only increase in impact and relevance over time if it has a proper understanding of the market; its implications for the freelancer in terms of the changing nature of employment and opportunity. I have no doubt that with enough imagination and drive we can lay claim to being a vital part of the broadcasting landscape, promoting best practice and serving the freelancer in practical and specific ways.

Finally, I would like to thank my fellow Trustees, and welcome two new Trustees: Chris Daubney, formerly Managing Director of Panasonic Broadcast; and Jeremy Johnson, formerly Finance Director UK with BBC Worldwide. Our great thanks, as ever, to our Patron, Lord Cranborne, a very astute and supportive guiding hand.

Last year was one of consolidation. This year has seen a much a greater concentration on the needs we have to serve. Next year we hope to focus on the ambitious goals that make practical sense and which will see us through the years ahead. Thank you for your continued support and attendance at tonight's ceremony: it makes all the difference.

Lucian Hudson
Chairman, The Rory Peck Trust

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• Winners
• Finalists & Special Commendations

• From the Chairman
• The Freelancers' Choice
• Awe is the only word
• Judging Panel
• Entrants