Photographer's shock at prize-winning picture

Year 8 student Charlie entered the Norfolk and Norwich Archaeological Society’s inaugural Plunkett photography competition after seeing the details posted at his school, a member of the Wensum Trust.

He was awarded runner-up in the youth division with his photo, Misty Day, taken at Strumpshaw Fen and his prize-winning work was also featured in an exhibition.

The Plunkett Prize was awarded for photos of the county which record Norfolk’s people and places and the shortlisted photos, including Charlie’s, were featured in an exhibition at the Hungate exhibition space.

“I was shocked when we got the email saying my photo was runner-up, I never expected that,” said Charlie, who was in Year 7 when he entered the competition.

Charlie said he doesn’t usually take photos, but he saw the competition advertised at school and was inspired to take pictures while on Strumpshaw Fen with his grandad who was volunteering to cut hedges.

“We are delighted that Charlie has been recognised for this achievement and so glad that he decided to put himself forward to enter the competition. We always encourage our students to embrace opportunities so are pleased Charlie’s effort has been rewarded,” said Principal Helen Watts.

Charlie was presented with an Instax instant camera as his runner-up prize when he attended the opening of the exhibition.

The Plunkett Prize was named in honour of George Plunkett who was born in Norwich in 1913 and took hundreds of pictures of his home county until his death in 2006. HIs collection is a valuable record of disappearing and changing architecture and social fabric of the area.