A BIDFORD photographer is celebrating after winning three prestigious prizes in a national competition.

Christopher Bradbury, of Blenheim Close, won the Avant Garde Portrait, Pets Portrait and Epsom Digital Award in the 2005 British Professional Photography Awards.

A photographer for more than 20 years, Christopher has only recently moved to Bidford after running a studio in the village since 1984.

Most of his work is wedding photography, and last year he was named the UK Classical Wedding Photographer of the Year, but says that he also enjoys using new methods.

"I love to have the chance of creating works of art out of your head," he said.

"I say to students that in the old days if you could see a photo you could shoot it, now if you can imagine a photo you can create it.

"It's always nice for your work to get recognition, and while I was hopeful that the images I submitted might do well, I was still amazed to hear my name being read out at the awards ceremony.

To win the award for the best digital photography was a dream come true."