A west Dorset photographer will have his award winning photograph exhibited in London this summer.

The South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year exhibition begins on July 3 and runs until July 30 at London's Paddington Station.

This year's winning photograph was taken by James Loveridge.

It shows Lyme Regis' Cobb during Storm Ciaran in November 2023 and will be on display for visitors to the London train station to admire.

James' photo beat off competition from 1,500 entries and impressed the panel with its beauty and its messages. 

READ: Lyme Regis Cobb captured during Storm Ciarán wins award

Jessica Lennan, judge and lecturer in photography at the University of Plymouth, said: “The winning photograph clearly shows the force of nature, with the Cobb being blanketed by the white, churning sea.

"In contrast, dark and heavy clouds pass by, allowing only a little light to come through, and reminding us of looming danger ahead.

"The South West Coast Path is unique but also vulnerable, especially to extreme weather conditions, which we have particularly experienced in the past 12 months. This image is an excellent example of how powerful photography can be in letting us stop in our tracks and raising awareness for what is happening now.”

Highlighting the diversity, beauty, wildlife, heritage and seasonality of the coastal environment, both on and around the South West Coast Path - 630 miles of stunning coastline spanning four counties, from Minehead to Poole - the exhibition will also include images that illustrate all too clearly the impact of climate change on and around England’s longest National Trail.

There will also be a free-to-enter competition at the stand to win a framed print of a photograph of choice from the selection on display, as well as plenty of information about visiting the South West Coast Path, and the work of the South West Coast Path Association and its partners to protect and preserve it. 

Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association, added: “This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the South West Coast Path, one of the world’s great trails, at the iconic Paddington railway station – a key gateway to the South West.”

Visitors to the South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year Exhibition at Paddington Station will be able to view James’ winning image, as well as see beautiful photographs from the winners and runners-up in the following competition categories:

  • ·         Your Path:  Reflecting personal and unique connections to the coast path.
  • ·         Urban Lines: Showcasing the towns and cities that punctuate the South West coastline.
  • ·         Nature: Exploring the diverse habitats and wildlife on the coastal margin.
  • ·         Climate Change: Highlighting the impact of increased storms and rising sea levels on the Trail.
  • ·         Sky Shot: Capturing a bird’s eye perspective of the coastal environment.
  • ·         Young Photographer of the Year (under 18): Emerging photographers showcase their talent through the lens of young eyes.

After its stint at Paddington Station ends on 30 July, the South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year Exhibition will head west to Plymouth, where the South West Coast Path Association is based.