YOUNG people are being encouraged to get out with their cameras or mobile phones to capture winning shots of wildlife this spring.

Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is looking for entries for its monthly photographic competition for under 18s.

Catherine Mason, community conservation officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “The Pat Dolbear Photographic Award for Young People aims to get young people interested in some of our smaller nature by using their mobiles and digital cameras.

“The award is the brainchild of photographer Ken Dolbear, a long-standing member of DWT from Portland, and is dedicated to the memory of his wife Pat.

“We are keen to see pictures of some of our smaller wildlife that is often overlooked, so take a closer look around you.

“Try looking in sheltered spots such as under logs for creatures hiding from the cold, or venture out on a sunny day and find an early bumble bee or beetle.”

Prizes of up to £25 in Amazon gift tokens are given to one or more of the young photographers who, in the opinion of the judging panel, submit the best work each month.