Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum’s Wildlife Sightings event had become a feature of the county’s nature enthusiasts’ calendars in recent years. An opportunity to hear from amazing speakers based locally and from further afield. The events promote the amazing wildlife in Pembrokeshire and the responsible enjoyment of the coast.

2020 has put a hold on many plans this year and this popular event was no exception. However thanks to the support of Bluestone, the photo competition went ahead online, attracting over 70 entries.

Marten Lewis, head of corporate responsibility at Bluestone National Park Resort, said: “It was great to see such a fantastic range of photos of the awesome Pembrokeshire wildlife. Bluestone are delighted to be able to support this event once again and we look forward to continuing to encourage our visitors and staff to get out there and enjoy Free Range fun in the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast and countryside.”

Tim Brew, PCF education manager, said: “Thank you to all of our brilliant judges for giving their time to the competition. They had a tough job on their hands but a decision had to be made!

“The entries this year go to show that Pembrokeshire has some amazing wildlife to observe, even when people have not been able to get out to the iconic sites in Pembrokeshire like Skomer or Ramsey Islands.”

Alec Denny, PCF sustainable recreation co-ordinator, said: “The photo competition provides a brilliant opportunity to get out and experience the wonderful, diverse nature that Pembrokeshire has. It highlights the importance of knowing how to view wildlife responsibly: planning ahead, reducing sound and keeping your distance all help to limit our impact on marine wildlife.”

To find out more about how to minimise wildlife disturbance and to spread the message, check out the Pembrokeshire Marine Code.

The winners as chosen by an independent panel of expert judges were:

Adults: 1. Chris Chalk - Fox Meadow; 2. Chris Gale - Sealuccino; 3. John Whitehurst - Brown Hairstreak Butterfly.

Under 14: 1. Stephen Bradley - I see through you; 2. Isabella Davies - Walking the line; 3. Lana Mags - Tortoiseshell Butterfly.

Judges this year were: Rachel Bott, an outdoor instructor and marine biologist based in North Pembrokeshire; Sue Burton, SAC officer for Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation; Marten Lewis, head of corporate responsibility at Bluestone Resort.