Malpas-based Cheshire Wildlife Trust is calling on budding photographers to enter their wildlife photographs into a competition to win publication in its charity calendar for 2019.

The Trust is seeking the images for its 2019 charity calendar which will go on sale later this year and the 12 best entries will each feature as a full A4 page in the calendar and the winning photographers will receive a free copy.

Jo Darlington, director of fundraising and communications, is looking forward to seeing some top-class entries.

“We’re looking for photographs that celebrate the variety of wildlife and landscapes our region has to offer," she said.

"Whether that is general views of the Wirral coastline, our parks, woodland, meadows or towns or their fascinating bird, mammal, insect and wildflower inhabitants. I can’t wait to see all the entries.

Twelve runner up photos will also see their photos featured in the calendar and the overall winning entry will get the prized cover opportunity.

"We’d like the calendar to reflect the seasons, as well as the variety of wildlife that surrounds us. We are delighted to have leading wildlife photographer Ben Hall on the judging panel to help us make the final selection too.”

Ben's work has appeared in leading wildlife and photography magazines including BBC Wildlife Magazine.

Closing date for entries is Thursday, May 31.

To enter the competition and to see its terms and conditions, visit www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/photography_competition

Meanwhile, the Trust is calling on people to lend their support to maintain protection for local wildlife sites which could lose protection across England.

People have until May 10 to respond in a consultation about the proposed changes and Cheshire Wildlife Trust is urging people to take this unique opportunity to have their say.

“The rules that guide planning for development will shape the future of housing," said Rachel Giles, evidence and planning manager.

"About 36 square miles of land is used by new developments in England every year – so the outcome of this consultation is hugely important for wildlife.

“Over 1000 woodlands, wetlands, heathlands and wildflower grasslands in our region are set to have their protection in the planning system substantially weakened if proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework are agreed. Now is the time for everyone to have their say before it’s too late.”

For more information on how to respond to the consultation, including how to take part to help save the protection for Local Wildlife Sites, please visit the Trust’s website at www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/actswiftly