5 November 2025

A stunning photograph of spirals of foxgloves catching the sun has been crowned overall winner in our photo competition.

Mark Fursman, 66, from Liskeard, was the outright winner of South West Lakes Trust’s Love Your Lakes photo competition with his shot taken at Siblyback Lake near Liskeard.

As a keen runner, Mark said: “I usually head out five nights a week for a run and I always make sure that I have my camera on me. When I was out running around Siblyback Lake, I thought I would run up to the top of the hill to capture the light. 

“I only decided to enter the photo competition two hours before it closed and I’m so glad I did!”

We invited supporters and visitors to enter photos taken at one of our lakes across the south west with an aim to highlight the beauty and diversity of wildlife, capture the breath-taking landscapes, and share thrilling moments of adventure and exploration. We also introduced a new category this year, asking visitors to share their favourite memories from the lakes, to celebrate our 25th anniversary since it was founded in 2000.

With over 335 entries, the judges were overwhelmed by the standard and quality of images supplied. Judges included professional photographer, Gareth Williams, and representatives from South West Lakes Trust and South West Water, who kindly sponsored the competition. 

Professional photographer Gareth Williams, from GRW Photography, said:
 
“This to me is what South West Lakes Trust is all about. The colours, a complete feast for the eyes, and it makes you want to ramble about the lakes.

“The photo would sit comfortably in any gallery to purchase and embraces the lakes we have here on our doorstep in the south west. A great shot!"

James Platts, Chief Executive for South West Lakes Trust, said:

“The competition aims to encourage visitors to engage with the natural environment and experience the range of activities available at our lakes across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. 
 
“We were delighted with the number of visitors and supporters who engaged with and entered the competition. The quality of the photographs surpassed our expectations and perfectly captured the natural beauty and diversity of all the lakes.”

Winners were selected from five different categories and an exhibition of these images, along with a collection of shortlisted images are now on display at Roadford Lake Café, near Lifton, Devon.

About us

Healthy lakes, landscapes and lives

South West Lakes Trust is the region’s largest combined environmental and recreational charity, caring for and enhancing reservoirs on behalf of South West Water for conservation and recreation purposes. Our 50 inland water sites, encompassing 5,000 hectares of land and water spread across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and West Somerset, attract in the region of 2 million visits annually. 

Our reservoirs and lakes are home to many wonderful animals and boast important habitats and built historic sites. We pride ourselves on enabling people of all abilities to enjoy these special locations by providing access both on and off the water. It’s your outdoors – come and explore.