Barnham woman’s brings a smile to comedian Hugh’s face

Joan Barham took first place at the South Downs National Park’s “Life in Landscapes” competition, this month, for her image comparing the Long Man of Wilmington with a modern hiker.

Hugh, who was one of the judges at the competition and lives in the national park, said: “In this remarkably contemporary photo Joan has managed to capture two stories – not just one of the people out exploring the South Downs National Park today but also of the people who’ve shaped it in the past.”

Joan beat more than 100 other entries from across the area to win the title,

Judges were asked to choose a winning image that showed the relationship between man and the land, capturing tales of rich cultural heritage, community pride, enterprise or recreation.

Speaking about her win, she said: “It’s so exciting to have won the competition, I’m a keen walker and love visiting the Long Man of Wilmington as he’s such a well-known character in this part of the National Park.

“I went out with a really clear idea in my mind about the hiker echoing the Long Man’s pose and I’m grateful to my husband who patiently agreed to be my model.”