Lucas Simpson’s winning picture in last year’s under-12s category

LOCAL photographers have the chance to win up to £100 as this year’s Clerkenwell Photog­raphy Competition welcomes entries.

Both amateur and professional photog­raphers have been invited to submit their work under the theme “My Clerkenwell”.

“This year’s theme invites you to capture what makes Clerkenwell special to you,” the organisers announce on their website: “For some it may be the people, for others the buildings. It might be where you go to school, or to work or play.”

They add: “From ancient monasteries to modern cuisine, from hipsters to high rises, this unique area means different things to different people.”

Chris Walker, author and illustrator of 101 Moderately Interesting Facts About Clerkenwell, set up the competition in 2021.

He said: “The aim is the same as it’s been from the start; it’s a way to get the community to come together literally and physically.

Chris Walker

“I thought it would be a nice creative thing that’s proven to be very good for people’s mental health. We live in this amazing place but most of the time, you don’t really look at what’s around you.”

The contest is part of the Peel Institute’s Connected Community programme. The charity aims to bring communities in Clerkenwell together by running activities for children and adults, and mental health awareness projects.

The competition is free to enter, and there are categories for photographers of any age – from under-12s to over-65s.

“Because it’s free, it’s so accessible,” said Mr Walker, “and most entries are with phones, which are just as good quality as cameras now.”

There is an additional category for men between the ages of 18 and 25. Mr Walker said young men “probably think they’re too cool to do photography, but I really want to get some gritty, urban shots”.

Applicants have until 12 July to enter, and must submit the street or postcode of where their shots are taken.

For full details go to: www.clerkenwellphotography.com