Claire wins top prize for her picture perfect shot
A HELENSBURGH woman has won a prize in an Argyll and Bute wide photography contest where she showcased the town’s scenic sights.
Claire Coe was a runner up in Argyll and Bute Council’s Better Journeys Photo Competition for her picture taken on the nursery drop-off while she cycles with her child admiring the blossom filled streets.
Launched in February, the contest invited people to share pictures taken while they were out walking, wheeling, or cycling.
She said: “We try and make a better journey where and when we can, by cycling or walking to the swimming pool, to the local shops or to the Edible Community Garden in Rhu.
“For us travelling together as a family is great fun, good for our health with lots of fresh air, and you feel closer to nature.”
Winning first prize was the Cowal Befrienders for their photo of volunteer Kate taking Kath and Mary from Ardnahein Care Home out on the trishaw bike at
Westbay, Dunoon on a special trip to celebrate Kath’s 102nd birthday.
Project co-ordinator Robin Miller said: “We’re delighted to win the better journeys competition. We took the photo on a beautiful crisp January day in Dunoon, with Kath celebrating her birthday.
“Using the Cycling without Age Scotland Trishaw has helped us to build connections with the local care homes and the community.
“We can provide a unique and sociable outdoor experience for older people, with everyone stopping to talk when we are out on the bike.
“It’s a great way to help get older people out and enable them to chat and share stories.”
Alison Ralston from Campbeltown was the second runner up for her picture taken cycling with her son on her way to the childminder.
The Cowal Befrienders have won a £50 Argyll and Bute gift card while Claire and Alison have both won a £25 Argyll and Bute gift card.
Policy lead for roads and infrastructure, Councillor Andrew Kain, said: “Thanks to everyone for entering our better journeys photo competition.
“It’s fantastic to see so many people making small changes where they can and breaking down barriers, no matter what age from the ladies enjoying their trishaw trip to parents cycling with their young children.
“We know it’s not always possible to leave the car at home all the time, but we hope the winning photos will help inspire others to make small changes, even just once a week, to make a big difference and help create a climate friendly Argyll and Bute.”
Argyll and Bute Council’s Better Journey campaign aims to encourage more people to leave the car behind for shorter journeys where possible.
Around 60 per cent of journeys between one and two miles are done by car.
And while the competition has now closed, the council is still welcoming submissions of photos from residents showing them making better journeys in the area.
To submit your pictures, email photos@argyll-bute.gov.uk.
For more information on how you can make a better journey, visit: www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/ better-journeys.