Photographer Piers Fearick, from Worthing, West Sussex, claimed both the first and runner-up spots in the wildlife category with his pictures of a yellowhammer and a wren. Jan Knowlson, the national park’s biodiversity officer and one of the judges, said of the yellowhammer photo: “It’s one of our great farmland birds in the South Downs that has struggled in recent decades, so it’s wonderful to see the yellowhammer being shown here in all its glory.” 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.
“Yellowhammer, with its vibrant plumage, is only intensified with a backdrop of flowering golden gorse. “The tiny but mighty wren’s loud and proud, beautiful song can be heard from many a hedgerow and it’s always a delight to be eye-level with one.” Stuart East was a double winner, taking the first prize in the spring and winter categories with his pictures of wild garlic beneath ancient trees at Treyford and of a hoar frost on the River Arun.
Mr East, of Littlehampton, said: “I’m absolutely delighted. “My winter image was taken on a fantastic frosty morning at the River Arun in West Sussex with temperatures of minus 8C. “The slack tide allowed beautiful reflections in the water and dramatic clouds rolled in to complete the scene.
“It was a real pleasure to witness these conditions which are so rare in this part of the world.” The su.
