TV Crew Descends on the New Forest

On the only bright, sunny day in that recent week of wild, windy and rainy weather, the SkyArts team landed at Bucklers Hard. They were filming the semi-final of Landscape Artist of the Year – and what a location! Contestants had a difficult choice – should they concentrate on the historic buildings or the river.? A magnificent, dramatic sky and that wonderful perspective looking down to the water’s edge were also tempting – but woe betide anyone choosing boats with Kate Bryan on the judging team as she is controversially known for thinking boats are too twee.

Comedian and presenter, Stephen Mangan, kept onlookers entertained and let’s hope the editing team keep in the part where he animatedly rushes around with a hairdryer in a flustered attempt to assist one contestant. Sorry – can’t reveal which three go through to the final, nor show any finished work – but here are some photos from the very long, but immensely enjoyable, day.