The fourteen students involved in the project were briefed on various issues within rural communities today and asked to present a 20 picture story board.
The winner of the first prize, £150 of Calumet vouchers, was Jane Wright from Saintfield, Co Down. The second prize of £100 of Calumet vouchers went to Daron Patterson from Cookstown, Co Tyrone and £50 of vouchers went to third prize winner, Philip Steele from Belfast.
The judging panel included Gerard Ryan, Mark Allen and Linda Rogers of Rural Community Network and they were delighted to be joined by Tim Doak of 'Be Fantastic'. Tim was a photography student at the Southern Regional College some years ago and was able to give the students some feedback on the project based on his experience working with clients.
Gerard Ryan, a member of Rural Community Network Board of Directors, said "This is our second year working with Southern Regional College and again, I was impressed by the talent displayed by the photography students.' Gerard continued 'It was wonderful to see the different interpretations of rural life exhibited and I look forward to seeing them within our forthcoming publications.'
Sybill Moses, the Course Co-ordinator said 'The opportunity to work with Rural Community Network provided valuable real life experience for our HND photography students. As part of an assignment on photojournalism, this brief gave them the opportunity to work with a client and deal with the public.'
Ian Bowles, Lecturer, told us 'Now in its 8th year at Lurgan campus of the Southern Regional College, this is the only HND Photography course available in Northern Ireland, covering both full-time and part-time study. The course can lead to a full Honours Degree for those who wish to take their study further.' Ian continued 'Working with Rural Community Network is an excellent way to develop and hone these skills and I wish to thank RCN for providing some financial and real life motivation for the students.'
If you would like any further information on Rural Community Network, telephone the office on 028 8676 6670 or visit www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org