Double triumph for Cumbria at International Garden Photography Awards!
CUMBRIA CAPTURES THE SPOTLIGHT
Double triumph for Cumbria at International Garden Photography Awards.
by Danni Murphy
There was double delight for Cumbria at this year’s International Garden Photographer of the Year awards, held at the world famous Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London.
Local photographers Mark Hetherington and Matthew Turner proudly flew the flag for Cumbria on the international stage.
Mark Hetherington was crowned Overall Winner of the competition, while Matthew Turner celebrated an incredible two second place finishes, one highly commended and one commended recognition, marking a hugely successful night for both photographers.
‘Mellbreak from Rannerdale’ and ‘Venus from Kelly Hall Tarn’, by Matt Turner
Matthew described the occasion as a proud and memorable moment. “It was a joy to meet so many talented photographers at the event, including the Overall Winner, Mark Hetherington. It felt like an honour to have one of my images showcased alongside his, with both of us proudly representing Cumbria. Fittingly, our photographs were taken only a few miles apart, making the shared space feel all the more meaningful.”
Mark’s winning image, Grange Fell Last Light, was captured in August 2025 and celebrates the fleeting beauty of heather season in the Lake District.
Grange Fell Last Light, by Mark Hetherington
He said: “I am over the moon, and deeply honoured to announce that I have been awarded the Overall Winner of the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition with my image ‘Grange Fell Last Light’ captured in August 2025.
“I have always loved the heather season, and each year I relish the challenge of capturing the flowering heather in new locations within the Lake District. On this occasion, the vibrant heather and silver birch trees, bathed in the last golden light of the day, came together beautifully on Grange Fell perched high above the Borrowdale valley. With Derwentwater and Skiddaw forming a stunning backdrop, it was a truly compelling and unforgettable scene to photograph and a great way to celebrate the fleeting beauty of the heather season in the Lake District.
“I’ve entered this prestigious competition every year since 2023, and while I was thrilled to have an image shortlisted in 2024, winning the overall prize this year feels truly surreal. I’m incredibly grateful to the judges and the competition sponsors for this recognition, and to everyone who has supported my work along the way.”
Warnscale Bothy Sunset, by Mark Hetherington
The exhibition, featuring Mark’s winning image and all category winners, opens at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew from 14 February to 9 March 2026 before touring venues nationwide.
A remarkable achievement for two talented Cumbrian photographers, and a proud moment for the county.
Visit their websites see more of Mark and Matt’s work;
www.markhetherington.com
www.mjturnerphotography.com
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