Double gold award for Emma's stories

2:32pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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THE work of a young Birkenhead photographer has earned her two gold awards in a national competition.

Emma Loftus' entries "Laura's Wedding" and "My Joe" were among 1,100 received in the "Snap!" competition, organised by Mencap.

The images were either taken by, or included someone, with a learning disability.

Each one was accompanied by a short descriptive story.

The photograph Laura's Wedding, taken by Emma's mum, shows her in a bridesmaid dress and is accompanied by the words: "I loved being a bridesmaid because I met loads of new people. I felt gorgeous and I had my first Bucks Fizz.

"Everyone thinks I am growing up now and mature.

"I think this photo my mum took makes me look grown up. I love growing up!"

The second photo, My Joe, is in the relationships category and shows Emma, 16, with her brother Joe, who had his appendix removed and the story is about his sister's concern for him.

As well as winning a Fujifilm digital camera, Emma's work will also be on display at the Proud Camden gallery in London from June 19 until July 6.

Competition judges included fashion and celebrity photographer Rankin who said: "Using photographs and stories together gives a unique insight into a person's life.

"The judging was a really tough job, as the standard of entries was outstanding and I was really impressed by the creativity shown."