Three young photographers have each won a prize for thephotos they took over the Oxford Christmas Light Festival weekend.

Oxford film-maker Sam Hamper chose the images that he felt best captured the theme of The Art of Connectivity and atmosphere of the festival.

The competition drew entries from all ages.

Sam said: “These photographs were chosen for their spontaneity and atmosphere showing different aspects of the festival and how people relate to it and engage with it.”

Erin Theobold won for her photograph of a tree, dramatically uplit against a darkening sky.

Erin said: “I always enjoy photographing nature. It’s always there and always changing so you’re able to photograph the same thing getting totally different results each time, especially throughout the seasons. The lights simply emphasised that - highlighting the empty branches in ways natural light wouldn’t. When the lights were illuminating the trees, it emphasised the shape and strength and in turn, the event emphasised the varying shape and strength of the community.”

Leanne Miller showed a group of children holding their handmade, illuminated lanterns.

She said: “I took this picture after we attended the lantern workshop at Barton Park School. The kids had a great time creating their masterpieces. Their proudness shines through with their lanterns.”

And Aimee Winkfield’s image captured the moment a lantern parade set off around the city streets.

Aimee explained how her photograph came about.

“I wanted to capture the parade on the start of the journey, just as it left the community centre. The centre plays an important role in bringing people together, so it was important for me to showcase the families enjoying themselves, the location and the talent of the children and young people who made these amazing lanterns.

"It was a genuine delight to be a part of this festival and lantern walk, and I hope my photograph captured the community spirit of the day. I'd like to thank Oxford Christmas Light Festival and Oxford City Council, for providing the support to allow charities and community groups to come together once more, to have fun, be social, and hopefully heal.”

All three winners will be receiving a Christmas hamper from the Covered Market.

Councillor Mary Clarkson, Oxford City Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said: “It is easy to see from these wonderful photographs what a creative event Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival is. They show the sheer celebration of communities coming together and having a joyful moment. My congratulations to the winners in capturing the essence of the festival and showing what a welcoming city Oxford is.”

For more images, see www.oxlightfest.com/live-gallery