This image was used around the world to show the devastating storms that ravaged the westcountry’s coastline in February 2014. Last week it was judged the UK’s ultimate view of the sea and the overall winner of the prestigious Shipwrecked Mariner’s Society’s annual photography competition.
The picture was taken by freelance Helston photographer, Bernie Pettersen, an associate of the Sue Bradbury Public Relations agency and a former chief petty officer and photographer in the Royal Navy.
Pettersen stood on a ladder overlooking Porthleven harbour for a total of 12 hours during the worst three days of the storms to get his winning shot – not unusual behaviour in the experience of Sue Bradbury.
She said: “I’ve worked with Bernie for over 30 years. We met at RNAS Culdrose when I was the public relations officer and he was a Royal Navy photographer. When I formed my own PR agency I asked Bernie to join as an associate.
“He’s the consummate professional, charming to work with, totally reliable and often goes to extreme lengths to ensure the very best results. It came as no surprise when he told me how he’d achieved his award-winning photograph and equally I’m not surprised he won – just delighted his efforts have been recognised.”
The Shipwrecked Mariner’s Society was founded 175 years ago to provide financial support to retired merchant seafarers, fishermen and their dependents in need and to those injured or too ill to continue working at sea.
