My home county of North Yorkshire encompasses a very large geographical area and contains many beautiful vistas as well as not one but two National Parks.

Situated in Airedale, Skipton has long been known as the "Gateway to the Dales". I was born and raised here and feel extremely fortunate having so much natural beauty on my doorstep (or within a short trip). It is sometimes said that you don't bother with what is right under your nose, you take it for granted. I can't say I have ever really done that but photography has certainly helped me appreciate my surroundings much more.

All the major dales have the same name as the river which runs through them, and most these rivers eventually end up flowing into the North Sea. The further North and West you go you will meet up with deep valleys, wild fells and lots and lots of limestone forming breathtaking scenery and remarkable rock formations. Whilst to the East, the valleys are much broader, gentler and more arable as the land flattens out towards the Vale of York.

What you will find across all the Yorkshire Dales, indeed the whole of North Yorkshire, is a strong local community spirit and a warm welcome.