'All things bright and beautiful' was the theme for this year's Manx Heritage Flower Festival Photographic Competition, and the displays in participating churches inspired an especially high quality of entries.
The winner was Peter Tucker, with his vivid shot (pictured) of Viking crosses and greenery in Kirk Andreas church, whilst whilst runner-up Sue Jones captured a striking window arrangement in Trinity United Reformed Church in Ramsey.
Amongst the highly commended photographs was one by the competition's youngest ever entrant, 5 year old Thomas Young.
His beautifully composed picture, complete with a rainbow, was taken in the Promenade Methodist Church in Douglas.
Other highly commended entrants were Tricia Craig, Pauline Guest, Lisa Young, Mark Thorsby and Tim Norton.
The competition was once more generously sponsored by local photographer Richard Kinley and supported by Mannin Media Group.
The sponsor for the overall Festival, meanwhile, is the Department of Tourism and Leisure.
The 2010 Flower Festival, has the theme 'Rejoice' and marks the 20th anniversary of this popular event.
Look out for details of special ‘Festival Extras’ which will be part of the anniversary celebrations.
The 2010 Manx Heritage Flower Festival will take place in churches and chapels around the Island from 4th to 10th July 2010.
Hon Martyn Quayle MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, said, "We are all looking forward to the 20th anniversary of the Manx Heritage Flower Festival next year and viewing many splendid and colourful displays in the participating venues all around the Island.
"I am certain that the Festival will be spectacular, as in previous years, and look forward to the creativity that can be reflected in the theme.
"I am more than aware of the hard work and many months of planning that is involved by everyone in this magnificent event and it is pleasing that so many people join together each year to produce stunning floral arrangements, which are so much appreciated by our visitors as well as our residents."
The winning photographs can be viewed on the Manx Heritage Flower Festival’s website www.manxflowerfestival.org
