PHOTO COMPETITION RESULTS
A huge thank you to everyone who submitted their incredible images for our 2025 competition. We received almost 100 photos! Thank you for celebrating the beauty, history and shared spaces of Box Moor with us. We narrowed down the entries to 12 finalists, which were then put to the public vote via social media, to find a first, second and third place.
The winning image was a beautiful, atmospheric and misty shot taken by Sarah Coldwell at Overbourne, Westbrook Hay. A close second was a stunning capture by Daren Cole of a kingfisher taking flight, fish in beak. Third place went to Anna Blackshaw for her spectacular photo of a rainbow arching over Hardings Moor. An exhibition of all the finalists will be held at the Old Barn, Westbrook Hay, later in the year.
We’re now excited to announce the theme for this year’s competition: “Where Nature, Heritage and Community Meet”. Maybe you like to photograph landscapes? We have almost 500 acres of woods, meadows, hills and valleys. Enjoy taking action shots? The Trust hosts two cricket clubs and a rugby club. If wildlife and nature is your preferred subject matter, there is a rich variety of flora and fauna to be found in every corner of the estate. We’d love to see all the seasons of the year represented.
All photographs must have been taken of, or from, Box Moor Trust land. The closing date is 30th November 2026. Entry is free and competitors may submit up to 10 images. Photos must be in jpg format, minimum resolution 300ppi (pixels per inch) in order to reproduce well in print.
Rare fungi discovery
We’re thrilled to announce that one of Britain’s rarest fungi – the Vaulted Earthstar (Geastrum britannicum) – has been spotted right here on Box Moor Trust land. This fungus was only discovered for the first time in 2015. Originally thought to be unique to Britain (hence the second part of its botanical name), it has now been recorded in a few parts of Europe. However, it is still extremely rare and a fantastic find for our county.
These unusual fungi typically grow beneath yew trees, and we’re lucky enough to have two fruiting bodies at the base of one of our large yews. Who knows… there may be more hidden across the estate.
Keep your eyes peeled. If you think you’ve spotted a Vaulted Earthstar, we’d love to hear from you.
