Photo competition in memory of tragic farmer

A photographic competition has been launched in memory of a farmer who was tragically killed interrupting a burglary.

Julian Gardner, 53, was crushed to death between two vehicles after he disturbed a gang of professional burglars raiding his farm in Robertsbridge, East Sussex.

His business partner found him lying dead less than 100 yards from his home in October 2010, where he ran a vehicle repair workshop, which included agricultural machinery.

Seven men were jailed for their part in the burglary at Lewes Crown Court this week.

Now friends and family members of Mr Gardner have launched a photographic competition that “aims to encapsulate the wonders of the real countryside in his memory”.

The competition is being set up by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) to ensure that Mr Gardner’s name lives on by funding two magnificent trophies that will be awarded each year to the two winners.

A spokesman for Mr Gardner’s family said: “Julian was a countryman and farmer who was tragically killed while defending his business. He was a kind, sociable and extremely generous man, who was widely respected, much loved and is grievously missed by his family and friends.

“We are really pleased that his memory will live on through GWCT’s photo competition, which is themed around the countryside that he cherished so much.”

Peter Thompson, from the GWCT and a keen amateur photographer, said: “Julian was a lifelong supporter of our conservation research and was passionate about the countryside.

“His family are delighted that we are using their donation to set up this annual award in his memory.”

Two sculptures will be awarded to winners of the annual competition, which is open to amateur photographers in two categories – adult and under 16.

The two winners will be presented with their trophies at the CLA Game Fair, with the first trophies awarded in July 2012.

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