VISITORS to Northumberland’s new osprey stronghold are being challenged to capture images of the birds in flight.

With four adult and three newly fledged youngsters set to be on the wing hunting in Kielder Water & Forest Park next month, Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust has linked up with The Journal to launch a photographic competition.

From the end of this month to early September, the youngsters from Kielder’s two osprey nests will be taught how to fish by their fathers on Kielder Water, offering picture opportunities.

Elisabeth Rowark, director of the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, said: “We have fantastic images of the chicks being ringed, but none of them flying over water and hunting for fish.

“Now, with so many ospreys at Kielder there’s a good chance that anyone armed with a camera and quick fire finger could take a five-star picture.

“There are plenty of vantage points, with the Lakeside Way circumnavigating Kielder Water and Northumbrian Water’s Osprey Ferry plying the reservoir.”

Ospreys hover over the water to spot fish and calm days are best to see them. Once they’re bulked up with extra body fat, they will start a daunting journey to winter migration grounds in Western Africa by mid-September.

Entries will be judged by The Journal’s award-winning photographic team and the competition is open to all ages.

The prize for the winner is a unique chance to join rangers and watch osprey chicks ringed next summer if they return as expected. Northumbrian Water has also provided a £250 cash prize, with the runner-up getting £150 and third place £50. By entering, you consent that Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust can use the images for promotional and other uses.

Email entries to info@visitkielder.com and be sure to include your contact details and daytime telephone number. The closing date is September 11.