A breathtaking shot of the Milky Way has captured the public’s imagination.
Taken above the Cuckmere meanders in the South Downs, the image has been voted the People’s Choice winner in the South Downs National Park’s astrophotography competition.
London-based photographer Daniel Richards, from Bickley, said: “I love the South Downs National Park for its stunning scenery and natural beauty, and especially its dark skies for astrophotography.
“This was my first dark moon outing and I had always wanted to capture the stunning Cuckmere River as it meanders down to the sea to meet the Milky Way.
“And wow, it didn’t disappoint.”
Rare bird photographed in serene waterside scene
Rare bird photographed in serene waterside scene
Worthing secure last-gasp victory against Eastbourne – in photos
Worthing secure last-gasp victory against Eastbourne – in photos
Sussex photographers share the ‘light of our lives’ for this month’s competition
Sussex photographers share the ‘light of our lives’ for this month’s competition
His winning photograph earned him a £100 prize.
Since February’s Dark Skies Festival, members of the public have been voting on their favourite image from a shortlist of 25.
The announcement of the winner marks the park’s 10th year as an International Dark Sky Reserve, a designation recognising areas with minimal light pollution and outstanding conditions for stargazing.
The South Downs National Park revealed the winner during International Dark Sky Week, which promotes the importance of protecting dark skies for the benefit of wildlife and people alike.
The competition will return in the autumn, giving photographers another opportunity to showcase the beauty of the night sky.