Norfolk Day Photo Competition 2026 Winners Announced
As part of this year’s Norfolk Day celebrations, we are proud to reveal the winners of our annual photo competition.
The popular contest aims to showcase the incredible dedication and positive impact of voluntary and charitable organisations working tirelessly to support people throughout Norfolk.
Almost 100 photographs were submitted by local groups, capturing a vibrant picture of community spirit in action. From youth initiatives and sports clubs to projects for older residents, community gardens, and support for families, the entries reflected the diverse ways communities are coming together to help Norfolk thrive.
At the Foundation, we are proud to support over 2,000 grassroots community groups, positively impacting 1 in 4 people locally by directing funding and support to where it is most needed.
The winning image: Local Welcome
Local Welcome hosts community meals where people cook, share stories and eat together, creating a welcoming space for those experiencing loneliness, including refugees, older people and young people.
The judging panel said the winning image was a great candid photo, capturing a beautiful moment of community members being together.
Co‑Director Celia Mellow said:
“We are incredibly proud to have won this competition. The prize money will support our monthly Local Welcome meals in Norwich, making a real difference to people who attend.
“Our meals create a unique space where people who are different from each other come together to cook and share a meal from scratch, building connections as they do so. One member recently told us, ‘They’re beautiful people and I always feel welcome among them. With little they have supported me tremendously, especially mentally.’”
Second place winner: Matthew Project
The Matthew Project provides health and social care support across the East of England, including services for young people, people facing addiction and members of the armed forces community.
The shortlisted image was taken during a YouCan residential trip at How Hill, showing young people and staff spending time together outdoors as the sun set, without phones or distractions.
The judging panel praised composition and colours, and said that it shows tranquillity and a supportive community being together in the moment.
Third place winner: Attleborough Players
Attleborough Players offers a safe and creative space for local people to take part in theatre and experience the arts within their community.
Their image captures a moment from their recent production of Shrek the Musical, supported by a grant from Norfolk Community Foundation. The production brought strong community engagement and inspired new members to join.
The judging panel said that it captures joy and excitement of all the different ages and backgrounds coming together to perform for their community.
This year, our winners were chosen by…
Shortlisting: Richard Jarmy
Entries were shortlisted by Norfolk-based photographer, Richard Jarmy, who focuses on people first, cameras second. His work is all about capturing real moments, genuine emotion and natural connection.
Richard Jarmy said, “I’m always drawn to real people and real moments, so being part of something that shares stories from across Norfolk is really special. I’m excited to see what people have captured and I’m sure there’ll be plenty to make us smile.”
Judging Panel: Cup-O-T Services – Therapeutic Photography Group
Cup-O-T Wellbeing Services offer outdoor-based occupational therapy programmes as well as family and community sessions across Norfolk. Their Therapeutic Photography Group helps young people to build confidence, self esteem, and resilience. The judging committee was made up of young people who have completed the programme.
Asim Krdzalic, who leads the photography group, said, “It was wonderful to see the young people from our Therapeutic Photography Group take on the role of competition judges! They worked brilliantly as a team, confidently sharing their opinions and debating choices with one another and the facilitators. Their collaboration and unique creative insights ultimately led to an excellent selection of the top three winning photos!”
“The young people at Cup-O-T took on a really challenging task. They had to choose images that were not only strong but also reflected the breadth of communities across Norfolk. They asked thoughtful questions, considered different perspectives and worked together to reach decisions they felt truly represented community life at its best.”
Want to support brilliant community projects?
Our Love Norfolk fund has helped hundreds of small charities like these to fund what works in their communities. From new ideas to tried-and-tested activities, Love Norfolk back communities to come together and shine brighter!
Published: 27/07/2025