THE best of British wildlife photography takes centre stage at Moors Valley County Park near Ringwood.

Wildlife from across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire features in the British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA) exhibition which starts on January 14.

With 15 categories, the awards showcase the best of nature photography chosen from thousands of entries from across the country and raise awareness about biodiversity, British species and their habitats.

Moors Valley communication ranger Katie Davies said: “With so many stunning photographs on show, this exhibition is proof that you don’t have to travel far from home to capture some amazing images.

“Moors Valley is home to so many different animal species that whatever type of photography you are interested in, the park and forest can offer some great opportunities to try out your skills.

“Even in winter there are plenty of species around including visiting wildfowl like shovellers and teal, early morning species such as roe deer, and the usually shy and retiring water voles.”

Moors Valley is the only location south of London to host the BWPA national touring exhibition which this year features more than 100 striking images including grey seals, golden eagles, weasels and water voles.

Chris Packham, TV presenter and naturalist, said: “The British Wildlife Photography Awards generates an incredible catalogue of splendid, exciting, imaginative and artistic images, proving beyond doubt that we have the richest palette of life to celebrate in our own backyard.

"Anyone passionate about protecting and preserving wildlife will be inspired by the British Wildlife Photography Awards, which has done more than any other award to raise the profile of British wildlife.

The exhibition opens daily in the visitor centre and is free to view.

For more information, go to moors-valley.co.uk or the awards go to bwpawards.co.uk.