Norfolk Wildlife Trust nature photography winners revealed

More than 600 photographs were submitted, showcasing the stunning variety of wildlife that calls Norfolk home.

Paul Richards’ photograph capturing hares in the snow was chosen as the judges’ overall favourite, with 11-year-old Amelia Jane Balls being named Best Young Photographer for her image of a hare in the spring sunshine.

The judges’ overall favourite photograph, taken by Paul Richards (Image: Paul Richards)

Best Young Photographer, photo taken by Amelia Jane Balls, aged 11 (Image: Amelia Jane Balls)

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The lucky winners each received a pair of binoculars from the competition’s sponsors, worth more than £1,200.

Both winning images and all 10 runners up have been featured in the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s annual calendar, with all proceeds going towards supporting the charity’s conservation work.

The calendar is available to buy from Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centres at Hickling Broad, Ranworth Broad, Holme Dunes and Cley Marshes for £8.99.

Grey seal pup lounging on the beach at Horsey Gap, photograph by John Boyle (Image: John Boyle)

The competition was judged by: Conservationist and wildlife presenter Jess French; wildlife photographer and cameraman Josh Jaggard; wildlife presenter, conservationist and author Ajay Tegala; and Norfolk photographer Paula Cooper.

Fox cubs, South Norfolk. Photograph by Nick Appleton (Image: Nick Appleton)

Mr Tegala said: "There was such a wealth of fantastic photographs, choosing was a challenge but also an absolute pleasure.

“The winning image captures a unique moment in time, in very wintry weather. As well as admiring the beautiful hares in the snowy landscape, you can really imagine the patience and layers of warm clothing that were required to take the photograph.

“Helping judge really highlighted what a rich and wonderful variety of nature Norfolk has and what a talented group of photographers spend time to respectfully capture it."

Ajay Tegala, one of the judges of the competition (Image: National Trust)

Small red eyed damselflies, Sculthorpe Moor. Photograph taken by Tim Harris (Image: Tim Harris)

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Paula Cooper added: “I loved the winning image - it was very atmospheric, taken in falling snow and showing the interaction of the hares.

"It stood out from the usual hare shots taken in spring.

“The standard of the entries was great, really celebrating the wildlife we have in Norfolk, making it so difficult to judge.”

Bank vole peeping out from fallen leaves, Neatishead. Photograph by Jon Kelf (Image: Jon Kelf)