Cheshire East is picture perfect

Budding amateur snappers are proving that Cheshire East really is pretty as a picture.

Local people have been putting their photographic talents firmly into focus in a newly-launched competition that aims to highlight the very best parts of Cheshire East.

The winning images will be used to promote tourism and illustrate the Council’s vision for the future shape and development of communities for the next 20 years.

We want to inspire more people to take part – so here (see photos) are just some of the scores of striking images submitted so far.

Snap-happy entrants can submit up to two photographs across six inspirational categories, which include:

●          Art and architecture;

●          People and places (please don’t include faces if you don’t have permission);

●          Hidden gems;

●          A taste of (restaurants, bars, cafes, culture);

●          My Cheshire East;

●          Walkabout.

The deadline for entries is September 30 and the winner will be announced in October.

There are two age categories – under 18s and 18 and over (entrants under 12 must have the permission of parents). Prizes include a spa day for two adults, photography equipment and vouchers to local attractions.

Judges will be looking for composition, originality, visual beauty, creativity and relevance. Photographs must have a minimum file size of 500KB and a maximum of 3MB.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity, said: “The quality of the entries is fantastic and a real credit to local talent and the stunning beauty of Cheshire East. But we want even more of you to get involved and contribute entries.

“We want to see what you like about your town, village or local area and if you think you’ve got that picture perfect shot – then send it in to us.

“The winning entries will also beautifully illustrate one of the most important documents that the Council produces, called The Local Development Framework, which I would urge people to help shape via the current public consultation.”

This document will set out the plan for the borough over the next 20 years with the LDF Place Shaping consultation running until September 30. 

The Council is encouraging people of all ages – young and old – to share their views on the issues facing their town or village via a short online questionnaire. You can complete the questionnaire online at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf

You can also email the team at: ldfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk

The winning photos will also play a very important part in helping the Council attract visitors to the area by appearing on the website, www.cheshiremarkettowns.co.uk

Photographs can be submitted electronically by uploading them to the Cheshire East Flickr account, www.flickr.com/groups/cheshiretowns/

The entries must include the photographer’s name, age category and contact details as well as a short description of the photograph and the location.

For more information about the photography competition visit: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf  or email: idfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk or ring Cheshire East visitor economy officer Nancy Hopkins on: 01625 378063.