TWO youngsters from Southport have come up smelling of roses in this year's Southport Flower Show photography competition.

Andrew Fraser, 13, from Churchtown, and Nicholas Hicks, 14, from Birkdale, both came first in their categories in the Stefan Buczacki photography competition, which attracted entries from as far afield as Kent and Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland.   

Andrew, a student at St Mary's College in Crosby, took his winning photograph during a family day out in Cheshire.

He said: "I was over the moon to win. I've only recently bought my first camera so was really happy when I found out I'd come first in my category."

Nicholas, also a student at St Mary's, is a member of the Southport Photography Club and took his winning photograph in his auntie's garden.

He said: "It was actually a sunflower I had grown myself that I photographed, so I'm really pleased to have won. Photography is a great hobby and something I would like to pursue in the future."

The pair have won £50 each, as well as a certificate which will be presented to them at the show.

More mature photographers have also been trying their luck in the competition, with Southport residents Tony Duffey and Roy Dorkins both coming runner-up in their respective categories in the over 55 age group.

This year's competition has been more popular than ever, with a 45% rise in entries. 

Show patron and judge, Professor Stefan Buczacki, said:  "The entrants in the photographic competition never cease to amaze me.  

"The standard rises every year and it was especially pleasing this time to see such a wonderful selection of remarkable quality from the under 16 age group."  

Now celebrating its 80th year, the Southport Flower Show continues to be a highlight of the horticultural calendar.

This year will see a fine food offering, with local suppliers from across the North West of England offering everything from cheese, pickles and preserves to locally produced wine. 

Meanwhile, gardening enthusiasts can enjoy up to a million blooms that will be on display and take in the floral competition which attracts hundreds of entries each year.

For further information and to order tickets for the Southport Flower Show 2009, visit http://www.southportflowershow.co.uk/ or call 0844 847 1555.

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