KEEN young photographers in Thamesmead have been challenging the perception of their town as a concrete jungle of high rise blocks.

Members of the Teenage Reading Group, who meet at Thamesmead library in Binsey Walk, were invited to take part in a competition in which winning photos will be used to update the book Back to the Future - A Social History of Thamesmead by Valerie Wigfall.

Ms Wigfall, who was one of the three judges, said: "The young people produced some amazing work and present Thamesmead's parks, lakes, and wildlife at their best."

The other judges were professional photographer Paul Sanders and Elaine Johnson from competition organisers Trust Thamesmead.

Jemma Singh, 14, was the winner, second was Janice Koranteng, 12, and third was Ellen Vanden-Bossche, also 12.

All three received shopping vouchers.

Winner of the judge's special award was Mashal Esa, 14, who won a digital camera and a photography master class with Mr Sanders.

It is hoped the photographs taken by all the entrants will form a touring exhibition in Thamesmead and across Bexley later this year.