Bumper Crop of Entries for Splash In

The competition for the 8^th annual Isle of Man Splash In Competition saw a bumper crop of entries this year. 

Snorkellers and divers from all over the Island submitted their best images for judging in four categories;

• Macro;
• Scenic;
• Novelty;
• Biodiversity Portfolio of four images. 

The competition prizes were sponsored by Discover Diving and the Splash In trophy for the best overall winner was sponsored by Biosphere Isle of Man. 

Biosphere Award

Winner of the Biosphere award this year was Leigh Morris for his portfolio which included a male cuckoo wrasse, a spiny starfish, a jellyfish and a cluster of jewel anemones on a rock with a lobster underneath. 

Leigh was awarded the Biosphere trophy by Dr Michelle Haywood, MHK, Director of Discover Diving and herself a keen diver.

The prize awards were made at the Festival of the Sea in Port Erin during an evening reception hosted by satellites communications company OceanWeb on behalf of the Manx Wildlife Trust. 

Winners of Splash In

The gallery of the entries was also unveiled and was on display throughout the Festival of the Sea.

Winner of the Macro category was Dr Lara Howe for her close-up picture of a king scallop. 

Kathryn Fowler won the novelty category for her ingenious capture of a diver in a jar, and she also won the video category.

Andrew Pegge won the scenic category for his photograph of a snakelocks anemone mounted on a turf of seaweed.  

Michelle Haywood oversaw the judges as they deliberated on their favourite images: “There was a remarkably high quality to this year’s entries. 

“The judges had a tough time deciding on some categories and awarded a number of commendations as well. 

“Digital cameras have made underwater photography more accessible and even with some entry level cameras, the quality of the image is stunning. 

“Well done to everyone who took part and I look forward to next year’s competition.”