And the winner is...
Well, let me build the suspense a little. Some honourable mentions first.
Biglouis - I can't resist buses and this one is a great capture. The dark figures bring it to life.
Mnhoj - this really made me smile!!
Christilou - I love this one - that moustache and those overalls are spot-on to the era. I thought of "School for Scoundrels" at once!
Pdh - moody and magnificent; this is one of those photos I could have on my wall and keep coming back to - lovely.
ReD - almost ethereal - un-naturally natural. So well composed.
MiguelATF - great story and powerful image, the tight crop is so right.
Davect01 - Right on the brief, simple and effective. The scratches on the bell bring it to life
Darren Bonner - the spirit of Christmas! Excellent composition and exposure.
Muzee - you brought the chimes to life. The restricted palette and austere presentation here really appeal.
Donlaw - the tin man never looked better! That's a great shot and very well framed, with effective use of DoF.
Luke - this made me smile, and think of my grand-dad for some reason!
So, eleven great entries and thank you all for your contributions - but there can be only one that takes the prize. I am therefore going to declare
ReD the winner for that bluebell shot - just lovely, and the one that I kept coming back to when reviewing.
Congratulations! It falls to you to set the first Salon Challenge of the New Year!