Photo contest raises nearly £2,000 for children's charity

Sunday 13 November 2022

A photo contest aimed at cheering up the community and raising money for a charity that supports vulnerable children generated nearly £2,000.

Photographer Vince Thorne launched ‘Child of the Year 2022’, in association with Bailiwick Express, M&S and Shiny Panda, to celebrate Jersey’s newest generation and cheer up the local community after the last two years.

It was open to all children island-wide aged six months to five years, with entrants having their photo taken by Vince at M&S last month in return for a donation.

The photos were then considered by a panel of judges and opened to public vote, with smiley Felix Woolley, Arthur Tardivel and Ryley-Winter Porter taking the top spots.

Pictured: Photographer Vince Thorne.

Talking about why he chose to hold the photo contest, Vince said “After the stress of the last couple of years, I wanted to do something to cheer everyone up, support local families who may be struggling and also support a fantastic local children’s charity.

"I hope that my photo contest will encourage lots of community support and after all, seeing a child’s smile is one of life’s greatest joys!”

There were over 100 entries, 13,000 votes cast and three winners who each received an M&S kids voucher.

Pictured: The winners of the 'Child of the Year' competition.

Vince managed to raise £1,839 for the local Children’s charity, Brightly.

The money will be used to support will be used to support children and young people who are under the care of the Children's Service.

This could be anything from paying for clothing, driving lessons, doctor’s bills or helping them set up their own home.