Lizzie the whippet scoops top prize

Lizzie was photographed by Leyland-based Karen Riches of Red Frog Studio.

Lizzie’s owner Joanne Bowe had the dog photographed for her husband as a surprise for his birthday.

Photographer Karen said: “Lizzie looks like she’s standing really still and posing, but she was actually pretty speedy in the studio – she’s only still for a moment because she was eyeing up a biscuit that I had for her!”

The Guild is a highly respected UK based association for photographers which has members from overseas as well. Each year it runs an on-line monthly photographic competition, judged by internationally respected judges.

Guild Director Lesley Thirsk said: “To have an image recognised by the Guild in the monthly competition is difficult enough, so to have an image selected as being one of the best in a category for the end of year Final is without doubt an incredible achievement, and shows just how talented photographer, Karen is.”

Karen added: “I love photography and put a lot of effort into developing my skills. One way I do that is to enter the Guild’s competition. It drives forward photography standards so it helps me push myself.”