See how young Rotherham people view their lives and world in photographs

The competition was part of the Place Makers Future Shapers programme that sees young people advise on how to make Clifton Park and Museum relevant and valuable for their own and future generations.

Young people aged 13 to 25 who live immediately around Clifton Park were invited to enter photographs on their experience of lockdown, a favourite local heritage building, monument or site, their personal story, a special place they visited during lockdown or their connection to the area.

Rotherham Council’s head of creative programming and engagement, Leanne Buchan, said: “Usually we’d be running workshops and events where young people get involved in exploring the museum’s collections, telling new stories through them and creating exhibitions.

“With Covid-19 restrictions a lot of that activity had to be put on hold. We launched the Capture Rotherham competition as a way for young people to carry on shaping and contributing to the museum.

"And it was a way for us to show that the museum is still there for them – even if we can’t be together in person.”

The competition was supported by the Society of Photographers, the National Heritage Lottery Fund and Rotherham councillors for the Boston Castle, Rotherham East and Valley wards, through the Rotherham MBC Councillors Community Leadership Fund.

The winners were chosen by a panel of judges that included professional photographers, the Society of Photographers, and councillors who represent the communities around Clifton Park.

Ten winners received £50 Meadowhall vouchers, as well as having their photographs displayed in the museum. Three runners-up won a year’s membership to the Society of Photographers.

Mayor of Rotherham Coun Jenny Andrews said: “The young people in Place Makers Future Shapers perform vital work for Clifton Park Museum. Their insights, advice and creative contributions help ensure that our much-loved museum is fit for the future and continues to fascinate visitors of all ages.

“We can’t wait to welcome them back to Clifton Park Museum, and celebrate their talent, as soon as it’s safe to.”