A YOUNG Berkshire resident could be up for a prestigious photography award as a national animal charity opens voting.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has short-listed fourteen pictures from budding photographers in the People’s Choice Award for its Young Photographers competition.
Among them is Berkshire’s own Alfie Woodfine, aged 6, whose picture of his dog, Petal, sleeping among a pile of soft toys could take the top spot.
He is the youngest of the entrants, who are split into three categories: under 12s, 12-15s, and 16-18s, as well as further Pet Personalities and Pet Portrait categories.
It follows the overall winners of the competition last year, where a judging panel of photography experts, including RSPCA president Chris Packham, selected their top entries
Now the public are invited to have their say on who should take home the award, which includes a top prize of £100 .
RSPCA photographer and awards judge Andrew Forsyth said: “We love this part of the awards as it gives the public the chance to get involved and pick their favourite photo.
“We’ve got some funny, sweet and stunning photos shortlisted and we’re excited to share them. I can’t wait to see the winning photo.
“The photos shortlisted for the People’s Choice Award this year showcase some incredibly feel-good images and a range of animals from pets, farm animals to insects.
“This is a fantastic selection that is bound to make you laugh and say ‘aww’ out loud, so please get voting.”
He added that submissions for this year’s competition would be open soon: “We’d urge all budding young photographers to please keep an eye out for the opening of submissions to the competition this year, or you can register your interest now at YPA24@rspca.org.uk and we’ll send you full information when we launch.
“Reaching our 200th-year is a significant achievement and events like the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards–which shows not only young people’s outstanding photography skills but also a deep love and respect for the animal kingdom–makes us incredibly hopeful that every animal will be protected and cared for over the next 200 years as well.”
The winner will be announced on the RSPCA’s Facebook page on Thursday, March 14.
Voting will be open from Tuesday, March 5, until Tuesday, March 12, via: surveymonkey.com/r/5YV32GH
