Talented young photographers shine in South Downs National Park competition
March 13, 2023
A beautiful image of a little egret ruffling its feathers and a compelling shot showcasing the geology of the South Downs are the winners of the National Park’s youth photo competition.
Sixteen-year-old Billy Evans-Freke, who attends BHASVIC in Brighton and lives near Ringmer, captured the wonderful shot “Golden Egret” as the sun broke through the clouds at Cuckmere Haven.
The theme of the 2022/2023 competition was “Near and Far” and judges were looking for amazing images that capture the National Park in intricate detail, as well as those sweeping shots of the landscape.
Billy, who wins a Forest Segway experience at Go Ape, said: “Oh wow I can’t believe it! This is my first competition win so it really means a lot!”
In the 11 to 17 category, 13-year-old Felix Walker-Nix, submitted two photographs that were highly commended, including an image of a hare at Chilcomb and an amazing picture of a pair of herons by the River Itchen in Winchester.
Winning the 10 years and under category is nine-year-old Dylan Coakes with some interesting macrophotography showcasing the chalk that lies beneath our feet. The chalk of the South Downs was formed by marine deposits laid down when this part of Britain was covered by warm, tropical seas between 65 and 100 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period.
Dylan, who lives in Lancing and attends Lancing College Prep, said: “I didn’t think I would win, I’m really excited! I love taking photographs and I love nature too.”
Dylan has won a den-building kit.
