The standard of entries I thought generally high and those that I’ve selected for the final group particularly good examples of contemporary photography. Encapsulating so many aspects of the art the entries showed the high standards that are being achieved by long time photographic enthusiasts and those that – due to the democratisation of photography in this digital age – have only recently started shooting with a considered attitude.

As a photographer known for his work in the highly charged world of Formula One one may imagine that I’d like pictures with similar chaotic feel but, away from the race tracks of the world, I like to shoot and enjoy viewing a certain style of photography that is far simpler in it’s execution and mien. It can be viewed here: http://www.darrenheath.com/off-track. The pictures that I’ve chosen for my final group, two runners-up and my juror’s choice, are perfect examples of this type of work.

My winning picture, entitled 'Derby Eyes’, is a wonderful study of a seemingly innocent night’s racing at the local dirt track oval. With a haunting and completely mesmerising look on her face the girlfriend of – I assume – one of the race car drivers seems lost in a world of her own. Behind her a row of beaten-up cars and a perfectly positioned trio of guys, fussing over one of the cars, acts as a perfect background isolating and adding intensity to her stare ever more. The picture’s composition, lack of colour, mood and ambience results in me continually coming back to view the picture over and over.

My two runners-up: Sleeping at the museum and No overnight parking.

Both these superb images I’d be over the moon to have shot. Looking for all the world like pictures shot by Magnum’s Alec Soth or legendary photographer and inspiration to so many William Egglestone, I think both are brilliant. No overnight parking is very reminiscent of the work I so enjoy shooting.

Darren Heath