The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UK’s leading gardening charity, awards the RHS Young Photographer of the Year 2012 title to the talented Alex Berryman, out of thousands of entries from under-18s across the world.

James Arnold, the competition organiser, says: “The judges have been astounded by the extraordinary quality of images which both categories, under-11s and 11–17 year-olds, have produced. It was very difficult to choose a winner, but Alex’s sharp wildlife study of a young robin, beak wide open and with fantastic texture of youthful feathers, stood out as the winner.”

Alex Berryman, aged 15, says: “I was lucky enough to have a pair of robins nesting in my garden and happened to be outside with my camera at the moment they fledged. The birds were unable to fly and were extremely vulnerable. Eventually one hopped up onto a post, and I began to snap away. The bird was constantly calling for its mother and this is what enabled me to get the shot. Sometimes the best wildlife can be found right on our doorsteps.

“I am extremely pleased to have won the competition, and even more so to have won it with one of my favourite photographs.”

Keen gardeners and kids' TV presenters Dick and Dom joined the RHS panel of judges and have supported the competition this year to encourage more young people to get creative outdoors. Dom says: “The competition is a great opportunity for young people to get outside and explore nature, while doing something creative. Well done to Alex, he really has done a smashing job.”

For more information and to see the online image gallery, please visit www.rhs.org.uk/photocompetition