A TALENTED young photographer from Bangor has been recognised for her wildlife photography at the RSPCA’s Young Photographer Awards.

Lily Edwards' striking close-up of a bee on lavender caught the judges’ eyes at the event on Friday, December 15, bagging her first prize in the 16-18 mobile phone and device category.

Seventeen-year-old Lily's interest in photography started when she first received a camera aged just 12.

She says that she particularly likes taking pictures of nature and animals.

“I take photographs for pleasure. It helps me de-stress." she explained.

"I took this photo in my garden when I noticed a bee buzzing around the lavender. It took me many attempts to capture a clear photo because it was moving pretty quickly.

“I was surprised when I looked at the photo and saw the intricate features; its face for example is so prominent and it almost looks as if it’s smiling.”

Another of Lily’s images - a green shield bug - was awarded runner-up prize in the same category.

Targeted at participants aged under 19 across England and Wales, the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2017 were judged by a panel of experts in wildlife photography.

Springwatch presenter Chris Packham, who led the ceremony, said: "I’ve been judging the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards since they started.

"It’s exciting to see it move with the times, with this year’s new mobile device category. It’s a great way of making the competition accessible to virtually everyone.”

“It’s great these young people are going out and experiencing the environment around them and in their local area.

“There are some beautiful pictures in this year’s winners gallery and real talent shining through. This year’s entrants have been really creative and that is what we want to see.”

A full gallery of the winning images is available on the RSPCA website.