A STACKPOLE scuba diver has won national recognition for her photography after coming close-up and personal with a grey seal.

The stunning image of the seal was highly commended in the British Sub-Aqua Club’s (BSAC) nationwide Great British Diving photo competition.

The photo, was taken by Fran Hockley, 29, an Open Water Instructor with BSAC’s Cardigan Sub-Aqua Club and also dives with Cardiff University Sub-Aqua Club.

Fran, said: “It was a really lucky shot, I was diving with Cardiff University Sub-Aqua Club at Skomer Island which is a national marine reserve off the coast of Pembrokeshire.

“There were lots of mums with their pups playing around and I took a few shots, but it wasn’t until I got home and had a look at the photos that I realized how well this one had come out, with the seal’s head half above and below the water.”

Fran, who has a PhD in Freshwater Biology and works as a freelance dive instructor for the Ministry of Defence, won third prize in the topside category of the BSAC - the national governing body for scuba diving - Great British Diving photo competition.

“I’m really delighted, she said. “Great British Diving is a phrase I completely agree with, I truly believe the UK has the best diving in the world. We have so much wildlife and so many wrecks, there is so much to explore.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested to get involved through their local BSAC club.”

BSAC chief Executive Mary Tetley said: “Fran’s photo is really fun and truly shows the spirit of Great British Diving and we are so pleased she entered – it’s a great candid capture.”