A PHOTOGRAPHY competition has been launched in memory of Henleaze Lake stalwart Mark Thompson.
Mark, who joined the swimming club in 1988 and became a trustee and honorary life member, died aged 69 following a fall on holiday in Sri Lanka in early 2025 and remains greatly missed.
Mark was, for many years, the custodian and curator of the club’s archive and in recognition of his passion and commitment to the natural environment of the former quarry, the Lake has established the Mark Thompson Photography Competition.
Open to all full and community access members of Henleaze Lake, the competition has three designated categories: Lake Life – capturing the community, swimmers and activities around the water; Changing Seasons – documenting the transformation of the landscape and weather over time; and Reflections and Water – focusing on the visual connection of light, ripples and mirror images on the surface.
Winners will be featured in the annual Lake book, highlighted in a month of the upcoming Lake calendar, and awarded certificates along with other prizes.
A knowledgeable panel including author of the Lake book, Susie Parr, and professional photographer, Huntley Hedworth, along with two keen, local photographers, Patric Bulmer and Nick Townsend, will judge the contest.
Entrants can submit up to three photos, but all must have been taken in or around the Lake within the last year. As well as a prize for the best in each category, a young photographer award, a members’ choice and an overall winner will be announced. An informal ceremony and gallery presentation will take place on October 11. The deadline for final submissions is mid-September.