Quick critique request - Lamppost

[growse]

Just wandered outside and took this, I'm in two minds as to whether I like it or not. Any thoughts are welcome.

Apologies for the jpeg compression, it's the only way I could get it to a reasonable size....

EXIF:

Camera Make: Canon
Camera Model: Canon EOS 350D DIGITAL
Image Date: 2006:01:28 17:14:19
Flash Used: No
Focal Length: 24.0mm
CCD Width: 14.80mm
Exposure Time: 0.067 s (1/15)
Aperture: f/2.8
ISO equiv: 800
Exposure Bias: 1.67
White Balance: Auto
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: aperture priority (semi-auto)
Exposure Mode: Auto Bracketing

 

[RichDay]

I really like the starburst around the top of the lamp, some interesting ironwork just underneath it too. Don't like the background too much though, it's a bit distracting. Well done for getting things as sharp as you have, were you handholding?

 

[Reidy]

i like the light shining on the tree below

 

[growse]

Yes - handheld. I wanted to try and include something else in the pic apart from just the lamppost - but I can see the point that it might be distracting....