National Historic Ships UK’s annual awards ceremony is a celebration of maritime heritage around UK coasts, lakes, and rivers. It encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with static and operational historic vessels through photography, volunteering, conservation, online activities and skills-based training.

The winners of National Historic Ships UK’s 2020 Photography Competition, Marsh Volunteer, Flagship and Excellence in Maritime Conservation Awards were revealed during a virtual Awards Ceremony filmed on board HMS Belfast in London, featuring special guest presenters in the form of international sailor Tracy Edwards and historian Dan Snow.

The accolade of Photographer of the Year 2020 went to Daniel Jones from Glasgow after his image ‘Riverside Museum, Glasgow and Tall Ship Glenlee’ was chosen from hundreds of entries to scoop the winning prize of £250 Virgin Experience vouchers and a unique hand-crafted glass bowl.

Commenting on the winning image, head judge Christian Topf said:

“The winning photograph marries the traditional with the modern in unexpected ways, by juxtaposing the bold lines of the Riverside Museum building with the functionality and pragmatism of the tall ship Glenlee, both strikingly beautiful in their own right. Theis scene, devoid of any people, seems to echo the unusual circumstances and predicament in which we all find ourselves during these strange days of Covid-19.”

The competition was strong with outstanding submissions from a wide range of entrants. The judging panel was delighted to see both professional and amateur photographers represented, although to ensure fairness these details are not disclosed when selecting the best photographs.

The Photography Competition has been supported this year by Beckett Rankine, Robbins Timber, Adlard Coles, Park Lane Press, Chatham Rope Company and Classic Boat magazine. The venue for the Awards Ceremony was provided courtesy of the Imperial War Museum.