AN ANDOVER church is hosting a free photography competition to capture the essence of the town and celebrate its 200th birthday.

The contest is organised by Andover Community Church, which is celebrating its 200th birthday on Sunday, June 30.

It was previously known as Andover Baptist Church, which was founded in 1824 by a group of 11 Christians who moved from Whitchurch Baptist Church to build a new church in Andover.

Church's communications director Chris Choules said the church was rebranded to reflect its ongoing passion for the people who live, work and socialise in Andover.

READ MORE: Andover Baptist Church celebrates 200 years with new name

Andover Advertiser: The Mayor and Mayoress of Test Valley, Councillor Philip Lashbrook and Mrs Lashbrook meeting the Andover Community Church staff team and unveiling their new signageThe Mayor and Mayoress of Test Valley, Councillor Philip Lashbrook and Mrs Lashbrook meeting the Andover Community Church staff team and unveiling their new signage (Image: Contributed)

The photography competition is open to all ages, with categories for under 11s, 11-17s, and adults (18+). You can submit your best shot that showcases what Andover means to you by Sunday, June 23.

The winning photo in each category will be printed in the Advertiser, with runners-up receiving certificates.

There will also be an exhibition of all entries at the Andover Community Church's 200th Birthday party on Sunday, June 30.

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Judging will be done by a panel of experts, including Andover-based photographer Alex Baker, Andover Photographic Club committee member Linda Gates, an Andover College creative lecturer, and two enthusiastic youth photographers from Andover groups.

Each person can submit only one photo. In your entry, include your name, email address, age category, photo title, a short description of the location in Andover, and the device used to capture the image.

Photos must be submitted in JPEG format, no larger than 10MB, and sent via email or WeTransfer link to photography@andovercommunity.church .

Film camera entries can be submitted as a printed copy to the Andover Community Church.

Full details and rules can be found on the Andover Community Church website: andovercommunity.church.