AN AMATEUR photographer from Trafford has reached the final of a national photography competition.

Kathrine Kuyt, from Sale, reached the final stage of the ‘Patient Portraits’ competition, hosted by the Houses of Parliament.

Katherine’s photographs showcased the reality of life after heart valve surgery.

Her subject was Marina McGrath, from Sale, who has made a full recovery from the disease following surgery.

The competition, run by the heart valve disease charity Heart Valve Voice, in partnership with The Royal Photographic Society, aims to raise awareness of the life-threatening disease.

All the finalists were paired with a local patient to create a series of photographs depicting people who are recovering from heart valve disease.

Mrs Kuyt said: “I’m delighted to have reached the finals of the National Photography Competition.

“Those with heart valve disease should be able to live, not just survive.

“Life with heart valve disease can sometimes feel like it is full of limitations, but I would love to show that patients can still live life well.

“I love photography, especially catching heartfelt candid moments and new experiences.

“I’m grateful to Marina McGrath for allowing me to photograph her and the time we spent together gave me a glimpse of the real difference receiving a heart valve replacement can make.”

The event at the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday, October 10 was attended by MPs, patients and clinicians.

Over one million people over the age of 65 live with the condition in the UK.