Photographers are being invited to submit images capturing the character of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire for display at the area's new Coroner's Court.

The competition is open to photographers of all levels, including beginners, keen amateurs and experienced professionals. Entries may be taken using either a camera or a mobile phone.

Winning photographs will first be shown in public buildings across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire before being permanently displayed at the new Coroner's Court at Swann House.

Images should reflect the local area

Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council said they are looking for inspiring images of local places, landscapes, buildings and moments that represent the communities served by the court.

The councils said the display is intended to create a welcoming and reflective environment for people attending the Coroner's Court. The Coroner's Service carries out independent investigations and supports bereaved families seeking answers following a death.

Councillor Majid Khan, Stoke-on-Trent City Council's cabinet member for health integration and wellbeing, said: “We want the new Coroner's Court to feel welcoming and reflective of the communities it serves, and this competition is a wonderful opportunity to bring some of the character of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire into the building.”

He said entrants could focus on the area's distinctive places, landscapes, buildings or moments, adding that professional equipment was not required.

Anthony Screen, Staffordshire County Council's cabinet member for community safety and resilience, said: “This competition is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the people, places and landscapes that make Staffordshire such a wonderful county.”

He said the county includes scenery ranging from the Peak District in the north to Cannock Chase and encouraged residents to share photographs reflecting pride in their communities.

How to enter the photography competition

Entries close on 31 October 2026 and the winning photographers are expected to be announced in November.

Competition details and the entry route are available at stoke.gov.uk/photocomp.

The competition details and quotations were supplied by Stoke-on-Trent City Council.