Australian photographer Brenton Edwards took top spot in the Commonwealth Photographic Awards, which was open to all Commonwealth residents and judged by a panel that included Guardian photographer Dan Chung.

UK photographer Caroline Irby landed the European title.

Brenton?s winning image shows a boy held aloft on the razor sharp points of several swords and spears.

Winning pictures from the contest will go on show in London at the Commonwealth Club, 25 Northumberland Avenue, from 10 September to 31 October. For details call 020 7930 6733.

The awards are organised by the Commonwealth Press Union, whose members include over 1,500 newspapers and agencies.

Picture credit: Brenton Edwards