The railings and their shadow next to them looks really interesting.Have you considered a close crop so this forms the main picture?

My first thought also was more contrast and punch needed.
I am sure it would be good in black and white, but you could also try desaturating the colour and upping the contrast as an alternative.

I think there is probably some potential in the shot, but not as it stands.

Can't stop playing the new Lynrd Skynrd album at the moment.

Paul, thanks for the link re lightroom bw processing. Really useful. Great shot too, agree with other comments above.

Mannesty PM'd me and said it was a rubbish shot

I am off to see a mate performinh in his band and wondered if there were any techniques for shooting, ie, do I use the camera's on board flash? is it powerful enough, will it remove the colour of the stage lights or do I shoot without flash?
Any tips appreciated

Well I guess what I am saying Martin is that I personally don't feel comfortable with challenging the judges final verdict, even if I think they are wrong (which I always do when I don't win )

I like the irony, not sure if it is intended or not, but he looks quite sad given that Independance Day is a time of celebration.
I also like the contrast with the blurred background.
I think I would have looked at cropping it more at the top and the left hand side.
I also think the blue and red colours of his outfit should be more intense.
Hope this helps, Karl

I don't really see what you can say to the person who has done the judging apart from aknowledging the effort they have put in.

If you don't agree with their judgement I don't think it is correct etiquete to say anything because their decision is final and you have to respect that.

I have evolved from developing and printing my onw black and white prints, taken with my first camera, the ME Super.
I used to think that digital had taken some of the craft away, but with Photoshop you can still dodge and burn, plus there are so many other creative features to get stuck into as well.
If anything, I would say that digital makes you take lots more pictures which has to be a good thing?
The only thing I miss is the printing part, so I guess I should be looking for a truly great black and white printer to produce top quality prints on quality paper. Any recomendations?

Thank you very much thoughton. All of the factors you mention were what I intended. I left a space at the side of the pig man for his victim.