Photography competition puts Sunderland seaside in the picture

As part of the restoration of Roker Pier and Lighthouse, Roker Heritage Group is inviting the public to take part in a competition to celebrate Roker and Seaburn as well as the pier and lighthouse, prior to its opening in the Autumn, when it will be open to visitors for the first time.

Anyone who wishes to get involved from professionals to amateurs can take part.

There are four different categories to enter including Roker Pier and Lighthouse, City by the Sea, Seafront Nature, and the Young Person’s Award.

Phil Tweddell, chairman of the Roker Heritage Group, said: “The whole area has such a remarkable heritage waiting to be discovered, and the coastal landscape contrasted with the imposing lighthouse and pier lends itself really well to being captured on camera.

“You don’t need to be a professional to take part, most people have a smartphone they can use, and we just want people to be creative and engage with the area and all it offers.

“We always love seeing photos people have taken when visiting the area, so we are very excited to see all of the submissions.”

The winning entrants will be awarded with a trophy and a framed print of their photograph during a ceremony in September, and will have their photographs featured in a travelling exhibition which will be held at venues across Sunderland.

Restoration to the interior of the lighthouse is nearing completion following funding and support from Heritage Lottery Fund and Sunderland City Council.

From autumn, visitors will have the chance to join tours of the lighthouse conducted by Roker Heritage Group.

Tours will include the pier, the interior of the lighthouse and the tunnel which runs underneath the length of the pier from the lighthouse to the shoreline, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the landmark’s heritage and local and national importance.

Matthew Storey, pier project co-ordinator at Sunderland City Council, added: “We hope the competition will inspire people to make use of and appreciate what an incredible place and landmark it is and help get everybody excited for its opening later in the year.”

The deadline for entries is August 31.

Entries are to be submitted via the Roker Pier website and it is essential that entrants read and understand the competition terms and conditions prior to making an entry, which are available online.

To find out more go to www.rokerpier.co.uk.