Young people in the Isle of Man are being encouraged to take part in the newly launched ‘Young Nature Champion’ competition.

Led by UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, the competition encourages the island’s younger demographic to ‘connect with nature’ over the next six months, and submit pieces of writing, short films or audio recordings from their favourite discoveries.

It will be delivered in collaboration with Love Tech Isle of Man, Media Isle of Man, the Manx Ornithological Society and Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT).

Winning entries will receive a ‘unique nature experience’ tailored to their interests and also lift the specially made ‘Young Nature Champion’ trophy.

Runners up will receive Manx Wildlife Trust gift shop vouchers, while there is also a prize of binoculars and a bird guide for the best bird entry.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘We live in a wonderful Biosphere with so much to see and do.

‘This year we are expanding our annual writing competition to include exciting new categories for film and audio recordings. We would really like to hear and see the passion for the natural world from our young people and give them an exciting avenue to promote their creative expression.

‘There are so many options - from a diary of a day at the beach to a film about a basking shark, or a recording of birdsong.’

Graham Makepeace-Warne, Manx Wildlife Trust’s head of engagement, said: ‘One of our strategic goals is to inspire young people to explore the wonders of nature, fostering a lifelong passion for wildlife.

‘The evolution of the competition into encompassing audio and video submissions is truly exciting. As an avid videographer, I anticipate seeing the diverse ways these mediums ignite the creativity of young minds.’

Participants, who must be 21 or under, must submit their entries before November 1, 2024.