Yorkshire Post man captures photo award with impressive portfolio

James Hardisty has worked for The Yorkshire Post for 22 years and submitted a top-class portfolio, including the three pictures left showing the consecration of the Church of England’s first female Bishop, Libby Lane; farmer Chris Clark, of Nethergill Farm in North Yorkshire; and the City of Leeds Synchronised Swimming Club.

He said: “I am delighted and overjoyed to win this award, it’s great to have my photographs judged and recognised by the UK Picture Editors Guild.”

Ian Day, Assistant Editor at The Yorkshire Post, said: “James constantly produces excellent photographs and his winning portfolio shows the quality of his work. These awards are the Oscars for press photographers and James rightly deserves this honour.”

With over 380 entries received, more than 2,000 photographs were considered by the judging panel chaired by Sophie Batterbury and joined by other established members of the industry including Keren Sachs, director of content development at Shutterstock; Ray Wells, picture editor of the Sunday Times; and Fiona Shields, picture editor of the Guardian.

The winners were announced at a black tie event hosted by Labour candidate for Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and journalist and broadcaster Kate Silverton at the headquarters of the Honourable Artillery Company in London.

It was the second year in succession that Mr Hardisty has been nominated for the awards, having been Highly Commended in 2015.