THIS month sees the launch of a special photography competition to celebrate the damond anniversary of one of the region's outstanding landscapes.

Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1964, the Forest of Bowland AONB celebrates 60 years next year, and AONB Partnership staff are encouraging residents and visitors to share their very own "diamond" memories in photo form.

Bowland is a special place for many people; whether they live in this beautiful area or have visited with family and friends over the decades.

Hetty Byrne, sustainable tourism officer with the AONB said: "The Forest of Bowland is often called a hidden gem and we're sure that many precious memories of the area will have been captured on camera. We'd love people to help us celebrate this special milestone by sharing their 'magic moment' images of Bowland."

The competition will run from 16th October to 20th November 2023, with shortlisted entrants and winners announced at the end of November.

Hetty continued, "Images can feature landscapes, wildlife, heritage, people enjoying the AONB – whatever makes a particular moment sparkle for you. Autumn is a great time to get out with your camera, but if you don't get chance over the next few weeks, we're also happy to accept photographs taken previously."

A longlist of images will be included in a special anniversary exhibition, which will tour locations across Bowland during 2024, and a shortlist of 12 images will feature in print in the new, official Discover Bowland guide.

Local businesses have been generous in prize donations for the final six competition winners. These include a two-night stay at Laythams Hayloft in Slaidburn; a nine-course tasting menu at The Traddock, Austwick; a £50 voucher for the Parkers Arms, Newton in Bowland; a family day pass to Bowland Wild Boar Park, Chipping; a local produce hamper and a Bowland Fitness T-shirt.

Competition entries can be uploaded on the Forest of Bowland AONB website at: https://www.forestofbowland.com/diamonds-landscapes-photo-competition-2023 where participants will also find the Terms and Conditions.