There are many ancient, gnarled hawthorns in the Snowdonia National Park, and I spent a few happy days there in January (last year), scouring the landscape for possible subjects. I find that hawthorns are very engaging subjects, I was particularly taken by this individual, standing out high on a ridge. It looked like it was just about to set out on a hike!

By crouching down low beneath it, I was able to isolate the rock from the exposed root, helping to accentuate the striking outline of the tree.

Commended - Black & White