A contest has uncovered the beauty of a Maidstone park and the talent of people behind a camera lens.

The annual Mote Park photographic competition returned this year and attracted a selection of images showing life on the lake, plus landmarks including Mote House and the changing seasons.

Judges met at Maidstone council’s HQ, Maidstone House, on Monday to select winners from a shortlist of 12, which had been whittled down from 372 entries.

The winning picture, a view of running water dashing over the rocks, was by Robert Toombs, who receives £250 worth of Mall tokens.

Second choice was by Amanda Harrison, showing a wintry scene overlooking the lake, and she will receive a £50 Mall voucher. Third prize went to Andre Masters with his image of the park showing Mote House, for which he will receive a £20 Mall voucher.

Mote Park Photographic Competition

People are now also being asked to cast their votes for Maidstone’s parks in the People’s Choice Awards.

Four are eligible – Mote Park, Cobtree Manor Park, Whatman Park and Clare Park – after receiving Green Flags for high standards and last year Mote Park was named Britain’s third favourite destination.

Voting closes at noon on Tuesday, September 30, with the winner being announced on Thursday, October 16. Visit www.greenflagaward.org