The Making Space for Nature project aims to bring more wildlife to the ‘green deserts’ of small urban public open spaces at the same time as improving them for local communities.

Budding photographers invited to take part in urban nature photo competition

Families are being encouraged to explore green spaces in their towns and villages throughout half-term and take pictures of nature within walking distance from their home.

The competition has been launched by the Making Space for Nature project, which aims to bring more wildlife to the green deserts of small, urban public spaces across Cornwall.

As part of the Making Space for Nature project, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) with Cornwall Council and University of Exeter providing match funding, wildlife-friendly plants are being introduced in a number of spaces across the county.

Photos can be submitted on two themes: Urban Wildlife and Parks and People. Pictures can include wild mammals, birds, insects or plant life. Please do not photograph pets or disturb wildlife and make sure you have permission if any people feature in your picture.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder for Environment and Climate Change at Cornwall Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for any enthusiastic photographer. I urge families to get out over the school holidays and enjoy what nature has to offer.

“We have some beautiful parks in our towns and villages which are full of wildlife. I hope this competition encourages more people to go and explore the green spaces in their local area.”

Photos will be judged by Daro Montag (University of Falmouth), Peter Marsh (Cornwall Council) and Rachel Caunter (University of Exeter).

Submissions will be divided into two age categories, under 16s and 16 and over. The winner in the under 16 category will receive a bee pot mini concrete planter and solitary bee house from Green&Blue. The 16 and over winner will receive an Eden Project pass.

The winning pictures will be displayed on the University of Exeter website and used to promote the Making Space for Nature project.

The closing date for entries is Wednesday 30 June 2021. Winners will be notified by Monday 5 July.

A prize presentation will take place on Friday 16 July at Castle Park, Liskeard.

How to enter

You can enter the competition by emailing one photo per entrant to MSFNphotoentry@exeter.ac.uk The email should include your photo, your name, where the photo was taken and the names of any subjects in the photograph, as well as your email address and/or phone number. The picture file size should not exceed 20MB and be formatted to JPG.

Further information and full Terms & Conditions can be found here.

Date: 27 May 2021