As Gwent Wildlife Trust’s AGM business came to a close this month, the audience was treated to another wildlife spectacle with the annual GWT Photography Competition. It was an ideal opportunity to celebrate the diversity of wildlife in Gwent as well as the commitment of locals to being outside with nature and capturing those special moments.

Pete Gill won the competition with a stunning photograph of a sparrowhawk, standing on the ground watching intently. Mr Gill attributed some of his success to Chris Hatch’s photography courses, run by Gwent Wildlife Trust, which he attended last year, saying “I made sure to keep the eye in focus and used the rule of thirds to orientate my shot, just as we had learnt with Chris.”

 The children did equally well this year, with the Under 16s category being won by Claudia Dobson with her evocative shot of a dead tree. And this year, GWT was delighted to receive entries from children as young as five. Ian Rappel, GWT CEO, said “It is inspiring to know that people across the county, but youngsters in particular, are taking a delight in observing and capturing (on camera, of course) the beautiful wildlife we have in Gwent. It gives me hope that our wonderful landscapes will remain in good hands for generations to come.”

Under 16s THIRD Evie Gailis (Common blue butterfly)

Under 16s SECOND Molly Hucker (Tawny owl chick)

Under 16s WINNER Claudia Dobson (Dead tree standing)

WINNER Pete Gill (Sparrowhawk)

THIRD Terry Winter (Swan at Magor Marsh)

SECOND Gavin Vella (Yellowhammer)