A Surrey student studying at Farnborough College of Technology has proven her creative talents by winning the National Abacus Art competition.

Bethany Lake, 18, won the further education category in competition with her painting ‘Sharks Fin’.

The piece was inspired by the National Trust and its properties in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.

Bethany, who will soon be moving to Scotland for university, found a photograph of Sharks Fin Hill on the Isle of Skye that deeply resonated with her.

She was particularly drawn to the striking contrast of lime greens against warm yellows and set out to capture its likeness.

The painting was originally a piece of coursework for Bethany’s BTEC Art course, inspired by a brief to create art that you could find in a National Trust gift shop.

Bethany was reluctant to submit her painting for the award but with encouragement from her lecturer Jane Habgood, she submitted her work in the competition.

Bethany said: “When I submitted my piece in November, I never expected to win.

“At college, you create pieces to achieve good grades, but to have someone who doesn’t know me or have any investment in my work judge my painting as award-winning has given me a huge confidence boost. This experience has shown me that my art definitely has value beyond the classroom.”

Ms Habgood said: “I am incredibly proud of Bethany and all the hard work she put into this piece. Her dedication to experimentation, particularly with texture and a large-scale painting truly set her work apart.

“It’s a pleasure to see that this competition has given her a new confidence and the ability to see her potential in a whole new way. I have no doubt that she will go on to do fantastic things.”

Bethany is now set to continue her art studies either at Glasgow or Dundee and her new confidence from the competition has inspired her to explore commissioned work outside of studies, something she had always been interested in but had never pursued seriously.

Bethany also thanked her lecturer Jane Habgood, saying: “My lecturer, Jane, has been incredible - she’s the best teacher I’ve ever had. She gives you the freedom to explore your own ideas but is always there to keep you on track.”

Virginia Barrett, principal of the college, said: “Our students are encouraged to push boundaries and explore new techniques, and this win demonstrates just how impactful this support can be. We are incredibly proud of Bethany’s success and look forward to seeing her talent flourish at university.”