A YOUNG Kingsland artist has picked up a top prize after her work was featured in a national exhibition.

Holly Brookes, 21, was selected to display her work – 'Storm Damage' – at the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s (DSWF) Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition at London’s Mall Galleries.

The inspiration for her piece came when walking along the beaches in Aberystwyth and came across birds washed up and tangled in netting after a set of bad storms.

And on Monday, the former Wigmore High School pupil was named wildlife artist of the year in the 'young and wild' category at a prize-giving event.

She accepted the £500 prize from wildlife artist and conservationist, David Shepherd CBE and DSWF CEO, Sally Case.

Miss Brookes said: "The private view and awards night was really special, I felt so honoured to have my work hung alongside pieces by artists who I've admired for years.

"Most importantly my piece was all about a British conservation issue – pollution – so the fact that it won an award is really fulfilling because it means these issues are being seen and publicised. I'm really glad I was able to give wildlife a voice that way."

Commenting on the winning piece, ‘Storm Damage’,  judge and Director of art gallery and museum inspired by nature, Nature in Art, Simon Trapnell said: “Good art has difficulty preaching but Holly Brookes has successfully combined the message and enhanced it with a great title.”

Holly Brookes’ winning entry and all the Wildlife Artist of the Year shortlisted entries are available to buy now at the exhibition that runs at the Mall Galleries, London SW1A until Saturday 4th July at 4pm. All artwork is also available to buy online.