Press Release
14th October 2015
Sheepdog photo snaps up St David’s photography award
An experienced agricultural photographer has won the St David’s Poultry Team photography award with a stunning photo of an over-enthusiastic sheepdog at work.
John Eveson’s photo, taken at the Hawes sheepdog sale in North Yorkshire, was published in Farmers Guardian, and scooped him prize money of £500, generously sponsored by St David’s veterinary practice.
Announcing the award at the British Guild of Agricultural Journalist’s (BGAJ) harvest lunch, deputy chair Catherine Linch said the image was a well-framed and expertly captured shot. “It included all the elements of hill farming – dog, black-face sheep, dry stone walls and snow – to make it worthy of first place.”
Mr Eveson said he was delighted to have won the competition. “I loved this shot because when young sheepdogs get carried away by their enthusiasm it provides entertainment for the crowd as the handler struggles to regain control.”
Richard Turner, director at St David’s Poultry Team, commended the overall quality of the entries, which made the judging process a difficult one. “This was our first year sponsoring the award and it’s been a great experience,” he explained. “We feel that it’s important to foster links between farmers, vets and the agricultural media, who play such an important role in communicating important messages both within the industry and to the wider world.”
Marcello Garbagnoli took home the runner’s up prize of £250, with his picture of Highland cattle, which was also published in Farmers Guardian. “You can really feel the wind blowing in the picture,” said Mrs Linch. “Windswept yet majestic, it’s a photograph which underlines why and how our livestock breeds thrive best in their own specific environments.”
Mr Garbagnoli said it was a privilege to be placed second among some great entries. “It is fantastic to have St David’s as a sponsor. The BGAJ photography competition is an important award as it gives all guild members the chance to show off their talent to the wider agricultural industry.”
Caroline Morley, pictures editor at Farmers Weekly, helped to judge the entries alongside Mr Turner. “Photography is an important storytelling tool, capturing more than just information,” she said. “In agriculture there are many stories to tell that deserve the best photography, and it is great that we are able to celebrate those people with their technical and creative skills through these awards.”
All the finalists’ entries can be seen here http://www.gaj.org.uk/award/guild-photography-award