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A CAMERA turned out to be the perfect leaving gift for Dr Martin Vaughan when he retired as a GP in Measham.
Keen to pursue a retirement hobby, he went on a wildlife photography course and has now been awarded Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) for his study of birds of the National Forest.
Although he has enjoyed travelling the world and seeing wildlife in exotic locations, Martin was equally intrigued by the birdlife closer to home and its developing habitat.
“Over the years I’ve seen millions of trees planted throughout the local landscape, witnessed tiny trees growing tall enough to peer over the hedgerows and seen woodlands grow into centres of recreation for people – and become marvellous places to see wildlife,” he said.
“As well as all the young trees, the woodlands often feature mixed habitats, so there are plenty of lakes and ponds, mature trees and standing deadwood – all invaluable for capturing some wonderful wildlife moments.
“As my portfolio is the culmination of about six years’ work, there have certainly been lots of moments.
“The National Forest is the most wonderful project to have happened in our part of the country in our lifetime, so I am doubly delighted to have been awarded the fellowship for a study of birds so near my own home.”
Dr Michael Pritchard, director of programmes at the RPS, said: “With fewer than 700 fellows worldwide,
Martin’s achievement is a testament to his photography.
“His understanding of British wildlife and fieldcraft and an ability to anticipate and picture wildlife to such a high standard is even more remarkable. Martin’s determination to celebrate the wildlife within five
miles of his home in the National Forest is testament to his pride in his patch, and the exciting changes he has seen.”