A PHOTOGRAPHY competition showcasing a town near York has crowned it first winner.
Sherbutt Home Care Services Ltd in Pocklington, which supports adults with additional needs, said its client Joe Sharp was given the title of Photographer of the Year 2026 after showing off his creative talent.
Joe’s winning photo captured Burnby Hall Gardens and Museum and highlighted the natural beauty of one of the town's most cherished locations which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Joe said he always looks for pictures which capture a unique perspective (Image: Kevin Glenton)
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Joe Sharp's winning image was taken in Burnby Hall Gardens and Museum in Pocklington (Image: Supplied)
He said: “I have a natural eye for a shot and always keep my camera phone open and ready to take these pictures and just this afternoon took one of All Saints Church in the town from a fresh perspective.
“I always take pictures of plants and also go to our local garden centre for practise."
Joe said for the competition he took lots of photos at the visitor attraction in The Balk, focusing on the colour, backgrounds and reflection from the 'Upper Water' lake which runs through the site.
He said he was pleased with the exposure and that he was able to capture the café to the rear of the images as well as one of the flowers on display.
Roly Cronshaw, Mayor of Pocklington, presented the winner's award to Joe Sharp (Image: Supplied)
The award was presented by Mayor of Pocklington Roly Cronshaw.
He said: "This really is a wonderful photo that clearly shows Burnby Hall Gardens in its beauty.
“We are lucky to have these gardens on our doorstep."
After getting the award, Joe gifted the Mayor a copy of the winning photograph, which he confirmed will be proudly displayed in his office.
Joe Sharp, Kat Macleod and Jake Martin were among the entrants at the inaugural competition (Image: Kevin Glenton)
Sherbutt Home Care Services Managing Director Linda Woodhead also was at the prizegiving event and thanked support worker Neel Seth for playing a significant role in setting up the contest.
The competition featured entries from client Kat Macleod, who has a personal connection to Burnby Hall Gardens, a place where she tied the knot.
Another client, Jake Martin, was also among the contenders, contributing a photo of a beach in Scarborough taken during a day trip.
Both Kat and Jake selected their competition entries from a large catalogue of photos stored on their phones.
Joe Sharp said he frequently receives photography tips from his brother, who is a professional lensman.
Sherbutt Home Care Services support worker Jesse Parker said: “I think the competition is a fantastic contribution to the town of Pocklington and the entrants have all captured the beautiful area we live in.”
Jesse said there are plans for Joe Sharp to present officials at Burnby Hall Gardens and Museum with the winning image.
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