A VETERAN photographer has snapped up a prestigious prize for the third time.

Mel Gigg, of Blunsdon, won this year's John Evans Memorial Trophy at the Western Community Centre in Somerset Road, Rodbourne Cheney.

His winning snap in the Swindon Photographic Society competition was of a car boot fair taken last year.

The 47-year-old, who has been a member of the society for 21 years said: "Out of all my entries it was my favourite.

"It was taken at Shrivenham fete during the summer. I was walking by the trees at the back of the sale and I took a few pictures but I didn't realise how good the light was.

"The picture is a combination of four, put together using computer software.

"I have been taking photos since I was five. I always have a camera with me and keep an eye out for something unusual."

Dennis Stephenson, of Merrivale Grove, Swindon, was runner-up for his picture of street shadows.

He said. "I took the picture outside the new block of flats in High Street. The sun had to be pretty low."

And Gareth Cooper achieved third place for his picture of a swan.

Evening Advertiser photographer Siobhan Boyle judged the competition.

Siobhan, 32, who has been at the Adver for 18 months said: "The standard of entries in this year's competition were high and picking a winner proved difficult.

"The overall winner was a picture of a car boot scene. I liked the way he embraced technology."

The competition was in memory of former Advert photographer and society member John Evans.

Anyone interested in photography in Swindon can email info@swindonphotosoc.org. uk

Ben Payne