A PHOTOGRAPHER is planning to mark York 800 by creating a series of portraits to highlight the contribution made to the city by women today.

Andrea Denniss, of Pink Lily Photography in New Earswick, says she wants members of the public to nominate the “special women in the community that make the city of York a truly great place in 2012.”

York 800 is a commemoration of the 800th anniversary of King John granting the city a Royal Charter, which Andrea said gave the city freedom to develop.

“I want to mark that milestone by honouring the women of York who contribute to the city’s success today, in a series of photographs that will inspire others,” she said.

“I am looking for nominations from all walks of life from business women, teachers, sportswomen, health and charity workers and volunteers.

“There are great mums, grandmothers, sisters and neighbours making a difference to York life in every area of the city.

“I just need to find them and with the public’s help, I feel sure I can. I have gained so much from the women I have met in my life and I would love to meet, photograph and celebrate York’s outstanding female ambassadors.

“I just need you to tell me all about them and through their photographs, I will tell York all about them.”

She said she was planning to show the photographs in an exhibition at a venue in the city later in the year.

She said the portrait event was open to any woman living in York, but people should check women were happy to be involved and have their portrait taken before nominating them.

Nominations can be made by going to greatyorkwomen.pinklilyphotography.co.uk