Local photographers win in national park awards

Pictures from West Sussex photographers have come out on top in a national park's annual photo competition.

Piers Fearick, from Worthing, claimed both the first and runner-up spots in the wildlife category of the South Downs National Park's competition with his photos of a yellowhammer and a wren.

Littlehampton's Stuart East was a winner in the spring and winter categories, while the summer category winner was Ian Brierley of Haywards Heath, and the autumn category was won by Steyning's Emma Varley.

Mr Fearick said: "I'm constantly inspired by the natural environment and in particular the South Downs National Park which I'm very lucky to have on my doorstep."

Mr East's photos were of wild garlic beneath ancient trees at Treyford and of a hoar frost on the River Arun.

He said: "The slack tide allowed beautiful reflections in the water and dramatic clouds rolled in to complete the scene."

Mr Brierley's winning snap, taken at Beeding Hill, was titled Poppies & Puffy Clouds.

"The whole scene seemed to sum up what I love about the South Downs, the endless views, rolling hills, and the feeling of being lost in the tranquillity and beauty surrounded by nature," he said.

Ms Varley won the autumn category with an image of a cyclist near Pulborough.