This year’s theme is ‘Nature Makes Me Happy’ and judges will be looking for photos of the landscape, wildlife, rivers, coastline, woodland, a piece of history, or people enjoying the National Park Open to amateur or professional photographers, the broad theme could also cover those ‘happy places’ in the South Downs that replenish the soul. Nick Heasman, countryside and policy manager at the National Park and chairman of the judging panel, said: “We’re excited to be able to launch our 2021 photo competition and we’ve got a fantastic theme this year that we think will really resonate with people. “It’s been a challenging 12 months for so many people, but one thing is for sure – nature brings a smile to the face. “Those experiences in the natural world, whether it be walking in a beautiful green space, seeing a majestic bird in the sky and going for a jog in the woods, have really inspired people. “We’ll be looking for images that capture how uplifting the South Downs can be. “We’ll also be keen to see if people can depict their ‘happy place’ in a spectacular photograph.” Award-winning photographers Rachael Talibart, Finn Hopson and Carlotta Luke also return to the judging panel. Carlotta, who is based in Lewes, said: “I am so pleased to be part of the judging panel again for the photography competition. “We’ve got a great new theme this year so I can’t wait to see what people send in to us. “I live in the midst of the South Downs and the landscape and wildlife here certainly make me happy. “I know they do for many people, especially during the challenging year that we have had, so please send us your photos that show this!” Rachael said: “Nature can be such a respite from troubled times and where better to enjoy it than the beautiful South Downs National Park. “I’m really looking forward to enjoying lots of uplifting photographs from this special place.” The top prize will be £250, with a runner-up prize of £150, third prize of £100 and fourth prize of £50. The youth competition also returns this year for budding young photographers – with categories for those aged ten years and under and 11 to 17. There will be a prize of a family pass to Marwell Zoo for the ten years and under category, while the prize for 11 to 17 category will be a family pass for a Forest Segway outdoor adventure ride at Go Ape. Entries close on October 31. For more information and to download the entry form visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/care-for/photocompetition2021 --- A message from the Editor, Gary Shipton: In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news, I am asking you to please purchase a copy of our newspapers. With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspapers. Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis. Stay safe, and best wishes.