South Downs trees at night photo wins competition
Giles Embleton-SmithA photo of lichen-covered trees at Chanctonbury Ring in West Sussex has been named as a winner in an astrophotography competition.
Chanctonbury Coven by Giles Embleton-Smith won the life at night category in the annual competition.
Judge Vicki Wells said it was "breathtaking", adding: "The cold, December full moon reveals both lichen-clad trunks and etches stunning shadows at this wonderful and charismatic landmark."
The competition was held ahead of the Dark Skies Festival taking place at the national park from 13 to 23 February.
Mr Embleton-Smith, from Eastbourne, East Sussex, also won in the magnificent moon category for a photo of the rising moon at Petworth Park.
He said: "I love exploring and finding new locations under the dark skies of the South Downs National Park.
"Chanctonbury Ring and Petworth Park are both beautiful areas offering different perspectives and composition for nightscape photography."
Giles Embleton-SmithJamie Fielding, of Angmering, won the dark skyscapes category with his picture of the Milky Way in the Cuckmere Valley called To Infinity And Beyond.
He had been planning the photo for over a year "waiting for the perfect time when the Milky Way rises over the south coast and aligns with the Cuckmere Valley".
"Delighted" with the results, he said he felt "lucky" to have "this quality of dark sky".
Jamie Fielding/South Downs National ParkEmily Birtwisle won the mobile phone category with her photo of a family stargazing.
She said: "After a very eventful 2024, my family and I came to the Seven Sisters for a few days for a little break.
"The scenery was absolutely gorgeous, and due to the early darkness we could make the most of the lack of light pollution and appreciate the stars."
Additional reporting by PA media.
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