Not so long ago the ugly head of controversy raised above the parapet and threatened the world's largest wildlife photography competition.

It seems the rumours and accusations are true. The competition has taken the most drastic step of disqualifying the 2009 winner, Jose Luis Rodriguez stating it is in breach of rule 10.

For those unaware of the story, a month or so ago, claims surfaced to suggest his image of a wolf jumping a fence was not actually a wild wolf like he claimed, but an animal model that can be hired for film and photo shoots. Clearly this goes against the concept of 'wild' life and breaches the rule stating animal models are not permitted entry to the competition. 

It's been a drawn out process involving investigation and a re-convening of the judging panel. Mr Rodriguez still strenuously denies the charges and asserts the wolf is indeed wild. 

It appears there will be no successor to the winner's crown for 2009 which does somewhat leave a hole in the proceedings. 

A statement from the NHM and BBC Worldwide can be read here.