Freddie, who has worked for the Times for four years, picked up a Provinicial Merit prize for his 'Victims of Hate' picture which the judges said was 'expertly framed'.

Arthur Edwards, The Sun's legendary Royal Photographer, said Freddie's photo of Ballyclare couple Graeme and Ajita Bowler, 'tells you everything you need to know about this sad situation'. The couple were forced from their home after being targeted by racists. Fellow judge, James Meehan said the photograph's 'powerful composition and striking light combine to produce a very poignant image'.

Organised by the Northern Ireland Press Photographers Association (NIPPA), the competition attracted 422 entries from 49 photographers across the province.

Another local photographer, Justin Kernoghan, who works for Photopress, was named the runner-up in the coveted BT Photographer of the Year category.

"We were absolutely delighted with the quantity and calibre of pictures entered in this year's competition," said Alan Lewis, NIPPA Chairman. "There is an enormous pool of talent in Northern Ireland and we're thrilled that through this competition their skill can be recognised."