THESE stunning images were captured by schoolchildren who had their eye on the prize in a popular photography competition.

A record number of young people entered this year's annual photography showcased organised by Bolton College.

Keen photographer Luca Birtwistle snapped up the top prize for his picture 'Looking Up'.

The photograph was commended for its “selective focus and depth of field to produce a memorable photograph.

And he won £50.

The Bolton News:

(Luca's picture)

Luca, aged 15, said: “I’m so glad that the judges liked my photo. I love photography so to win a prize for doing something I enjoy is amazing.”

This year, more than 70 pupils from across Bolton entered and over 250 pictures were submitted.

Students were invited to enter up to three photos of their choice, inspired by a theme of their choice.

The Bolton News:

Runners-up prizes went to David Fergie, whose picture is above, from Sharples School, and Zahraa Bhobat, from Bolton Muslim Girls’ School.

They wowed judges with their outstanding photos and each received a £25 voucher for their efforts.

The team of judges was led by Ian Littlewood, Bolton College Schools Coordinator and himself a talented photographer.

The Bolton News:

(Zahraa's picture)

Ian said: “As always, choosing a winner was incredibly difficult, but we were immediately struck by the power of Luca’s image; not only did it display imagination, but technical competency too. This is one of my favourite events as it’s an opportunity to showcase the tremendous talent of young people within our schools and sixth forms. I’d like to thank all of the students who submitted photos, it was a privilege to look at all of the images.”

Bolton College is running another photography competition from now until Christmas. Bolton secondary school pupils are invited to submit three photographs on the theme of ’My Life’. Entries need to be in by December 18. Email photos to photocomp@boltoncc.ac.uk