Some of the competition winners

An innovative competition has revealed a wealth of places in Richmondshire that local people want to see protected.

The district council run contest - ‘Richmondshire’s Best View’ - asked what makes the district special and unique.

And it did it through photography – residents of all ages captured their favourite landscapes, towns and villages to help councillors plan for the district’s future.

The photographs will be used as part of the Local Development Framework (LDF) process which will develop a long term strategic plan for Richmondshire.

“The environment is a key element to this process and we need to look at what features of our district should be protected,” said Council Leader, Councillor Fleur Butler.

“As part of this it is important to know what local people think so rather than involve them in written surveys and consultation roadshows we decided to try a new approach – creatively through a photography competition.

“It prompted over 80 entries and they will all form part of the evidence base we use when drawing up the plan – some were of places we expected to see but others suggested we should not build on certain areas to protect views, buildings, villages and countryside.”

The photographs will now be displayed in council offices and community buildings around the district.

Judged by local professional photographer, Richard Jemison, prizes went to:

Under 20s:

Samuel Hedges, aged 16; Daisy Cooil, aged 7; and Emma Embleton, aged 13

20 – 50s:

Carolyn Grant; James Paul; and Allen Brindle

Over 50s:

Mel Harland; Stephen Byard; and Ann Wells