Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has launched a calendar dedicated to the county’s wildlife, after running a competition for photographers to get their images featured.

The competition saw hundreds of stunning high quality entries submitted from all over the county. The images were wide ranging - from the small but mighty grasshopper, right through to vast landscape shots showing Staffordshire’s raw beauty.

After 12 winning photographs were chosen by the Trust, one for each month, guest judge Kevin Morgans selected the overall winner and the calendar’s cover image. He visited Staffordshire to reveal the calendar and present the winner with their prizes at an exhibition event held last night (Thursday 31 August).

Kevin, who is a UK famous multi-award-winning wildlife photographer, tour leader, and photographic guide also donated a copy of his latest book, Puffins: Life On The Atlantic Edge.

The winner, local photographer Karen Rae, submitted a beautiful photo of a curious fox cub in a woodland setting. She also scooped an incredible Lowepro camera bag prize worth £300, which was kindly donated by the company. 

Sarah Davison, Marketing and Communications Manager for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, said:

“It’s so exciting to have a calendar showcasing some of the wonderful wildlife and wild landscapes we’re lucky to have locally. 

“The standard of photos entered was incredibly high, and it took us some time to choose our 12 winners but those featured really show the breadth of what you can see in Staffordshire. We’re thrilled to be able share these amazing images with everyone in a calendar, which is available to buy now – the perfect Christmas present for the avid nature lover!

“A special thank you to our sponsors; Lowepro for donating such a fantastic prize and our guest judge Kevin Morgans, who is no doubt one of the best wildlife photographers in the country.”

Kevin said:

“Karen’s submission is such a beautiful image. Everything from the pose to the dappled light makes this a classic British woodland scene. But it's the eye contact that takes this image to the next level, evoking emotion and allowing the viewer to connect with the curious little fox cub."

The calendar is now available to buy for £10 in the Trust’s online shop here or at The Wolseley Centre and it’s three charity shops in Codsall, Penkridge and Leek.