November 2024

A stunning photograph of the autumnal woodland at Burrator Reservoir has been crowned overall winner in an environmental and recreational charity’s photo and video competition.

Anna Curnow, from Northlew, near Okehampton, was the winnner of the competition with her shot taken at Burrator Reservoir on Dartmoor.

The 51-year-old gardener, who loves walking and enjoying nature, took up photography about 12 years ago to help her relax and unwind. She said: “I took this photo when I was out for a walk with the dogs and had the camera with me. Walking along the road, I could see the scene through the undergrowth. I got through, found a place for the camera and waited for the light to hit then took the picture.

“I love visiting Burrator because I like all the old abandoned farm buildings around, the Bronze Age features and the tors. It’s got everything.”

We invited supporters and visitors to take a photo or video at one of our lakes across the south west aiming to highlight the beauty and diversity of wildlife, capture breath-taking landscapes and share exciting moments of adventure.

With over 210 entries, the judges were overwhelmed by the impressive quality of images supplied. Judges included a professional photographer and representatives from South West Lakes Trust and South West Water, who kindly sponsored the competition.

Professional photographer Gareth Williams, from GRW Photography, said: “The winning photo of Burrator Reservoir brilliantly captured the wonderful autumnal colours mirrored in the reflection, showcasing the lake at its very best. A truly deserved winner.”

James Platts, Chief Executive for South West Lakes Trust, said: “The competition aims to encourage visitors to engage with the natural environment and share their adventures at lakes across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.

“We were staggered by the quality of the photographs that were submitted, which perfectly captured the natural beauty and diversity of all the lakes.”

Winners were selected from five different categories and an exhibition of these images, along with a collection of shortlisted images, are now on display at Roadford Lake Café, near Lifton, Devon.

Linda Martin won the Wonderful Wildlife category with this incredible capture of two black-tailed skimmers taken at Longham Lakes near Bournemouth.

Whitaker Walker, Age 11, won the brand new Young Explorers category with this very detailed shot of a four-spotted skimmer at Siblyback Lake.

Wayne Thomas, won the Awesome Adventures category with his photo showing the most dedicated of fishermen taken at Wimbleball Lake.

Leanna Coles with her photo from Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor, won the public vote on Facebook with 127 likes.

About us 

We believe engaging with the natural environment enables people to grow. Our reservoirs and lakes are home to many wonderful animals and boast important habitats and built historic sites. We pride ourselves on enabling people of all abilities to enjoy these special locations by providing access both on and off the water. It’s your outdoors – come and explore.