THE work of talented photographers, who entered the annual photographic competition and exhibition run by The Island of Portland Heritage Trust, is being celebrated.

Now its in 35th year, the competition attracted more than 500 entries across a total of ten categories, including creative, nature, transport and landscape. Novice and under-16s categories welcomed photographers of all ages and abilities.

Martin Blundell, a trustee of The Island of Portland Heritage Trust, said: "The entries this year showed stunning levels of photography and all were of outstanding quality. We raised more than £700, which will go directly towards the work of the trust on the island."

The competition was the brainchild of the late Peter Trim, who was also one of the founding members of the camera club on Portland. The Peter Trim Memorial Trophy is presented annually to the image which best represents the spirit of Portland, and this year was awarded to Sean Hepburn for his photograph entitled Red Crane.

The Best in Show Trophy went to Jane Lee for her image, Bison on The Ridge, while the Profolab Trophy was awarded to Stephen Jones, who submitted entries to six of the ten categories.

Gaining particular recognition was the work of 14 year old Zack Griffiths, who received first and second prize in the novice category and was highly commended for his entries to the under-16s division. First, second and third place in the under-16s category went to Casey Siddons.

The exhibition takes place at St George's Centre in Reforne. St George's Centre opened as a school in April 1857, educating thousands of the island's pupils until its closure in 1969. The Island of Portland Heritage Trust was formed in 1981 with the aim of purchasing the building from the Crown Estate Commissioners, raising £25,000 within three months. The grade II listed centre is now at the heart of the community, hosting various events and functions, and is maintained by The Island of Portland Heritage Trust.

The photographic competition was sponsored by Wessex Photographic, O'Three, Albion Stone, Stone Firms Ltd and Tesco, with prizes presented by the Mayor of Portland, Sue Cocking.

A full list of winners can be found by visiting www.portlandphotographic.weebly.com