YOUNG photographers are being invited to highlight what they love about the area where they live.

For the second year running, Beck Isle Museum, in Pickering, is holding a photographic competition with two categories for under 12s and under 17s.

The contest is being sponsored by Pickering in Business to raise funds for the museum, Pickering in Bloom and the town's Christmas lights appeal.

Matthew Wilkinson, from Television House, a member of Pickering in Business, said the best 12 photos would be included in a calendar with a prize for the overall winners from each age group.

"The aim of the business group is to work together to raise the profile of the town but we also want to raise money for local organisations and charities," he added.

"The Christmas lights committee, for example, needs to raise between £2,000 to £3,000 per year and that is hard work for a small team of volunteers."

Matthew said the business group hoped to work together to help the smaller groups in the town and profits made by the sale of the calender would be divided between the three organisations.

"We are looking for photos which reflect the local area and which people associate with Pickering and surrounding region," he added.

Bruce Pickup, sponsorship officer for Beck Isle Museum said they were delighted Pickering in Business was supporting the competition.

"Entries are invited in colour or black and white, and the chosen theme is 'Where I Live'," he added.

“Our aim is to reach a younger audience and encourage them to visit us and find out more about their local heritage. We had a good response last year so it will be interesting to see what sorts of images are produced this time.”

The closing date for the competition is August 31. Entry forms are available from the museum or phone 01751 473653.