Amateur photographers new and experienced have until the end of May to enter their best images for the Julian Gardner Awards. The competition, run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), celebrates the UK countryside, from the landscapes and wildlife to the people who live and work there.
'Toad' by Paul Harwood
For many of us in recent weeks, the natural world has been a refuge from the uncertainty created by the coronavirus pandemic, and time spent in nature is well-known to be good for our wellbeing. Lockdown may have given people an opportunity to hone their skills or try photography for the first time. The competition’s judges are hoping that this will be reflected in this year’s entries.
“We are really looking forward to seeing lots of inspiring images, whether taken on a local walk, in a nearby park, or your own back garden,” said James Swyer, awards judge and Press & Publications Manager at the GWCT. “We love to see entries from young people and from people just starting to get into photographing nature. The standard last year was incredible, so we are really excited about this year’s awards.”
Last year Paul Harwood scooped first prize in the adult category for his spectacular close-up picture of a toad, while 15-year-old Katy Read, who captured a dunnock bathing in the rain, won the junior category.
The competition was launched in memory of Julian Gardner, a Sussex farmer and lifelong supporter of the GWCT, who was tragically killed while defending his property in October 2010.
The awards are open to all amateur photographers and are related to the GWCT’s work – taking in all aspects of the UK countryside. There are two categories:
- Adult section – The winner will be awarded the GWCT Julian Gardner trophy – a sculpture of a hare
- 16 and under section – The winner will be awarded the GWCT Julian Gardner junior trophy – a sculpture of a leveret
Closing date for entries: 31 May 2020. For more information and to enter, please visit gwct.org.uk/photocompetition
Notes to editors
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust – providing research-led conservation for a thriving countryside. The GWCT is an independent wildlife conservation charity which has carried out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife since the 1930s. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.
For information, contact:
Eleanor Williams
Telephone: 07592 025476
Email: press@gwct.org.uk