Friends of the Lake District is launching its annual photo competition and asking for happy snaps of the Lake District to star in their calendars and Christmas cards going on sale later in the year. This year, however, the emphasis is on past visits to the National Park as the Lake District still remains closed to visitors.

Past winners have been from Cumbria and all around the UK, and scenes have featured the area’s breath-taking scenery in all seasons as well as its wildlife residents and fabulous flora. Money raised from the sale of the calendars and cards goes towards supporting the Lake District’s world class landscapes and heritage.

Douglas Chalmers, Chief Executive of the membership charity said: “We know it’s really difficult for everyone at the moment and so frustrating for those of us that are longing for the fells of the Lake District. We thank people for not visiting the Lake District, but we all still want to celebrate this beautiful place.

“What better way than sharing some of our happiest memories of days out in the woodlands, lake sides, villages and fells? There are some really talented photographers out there and they will already have snaps they could share with us all.

“We post all photographs on our Facebook page and we think it will cheer many people up when they are reminded of what is waiting for them when we can all get out and about again enjoying our treasured Lake District. Plus photographers are helping the landscape as proceeds from sales go towards our work protecting and enhancing it for all to enjoy.”

This year there is also an under 16 category for budding landscape photographers and photos of the Lake District in all seasons are welcome.

Upload your competition entry photos here: https://www.friendsofthelakedistrict.org.uk/photography-competition-2020.

Closing date is 1 July.

See all the entries we've had to so far on our facebook page here.

Image above: Sphinx rock Great Gable, Wasdale by John Hitchings, August winning image, photo competition 2019.