A FORMER police inspector has turned his hobby into a business by opening a photography studio in County Durham.

Ian Vickery has spent the past seven years building up his wedding and photography company at his home in Stockton.

With business now booming, Mr Vickery, who also served with the Army in Northern Ireland and the Metropolitan Police, has taken the decision to expand by moving to bespoke premises at The Old Brewery, in Castle Eden, County Durham.

Mr Vickery – whose lifelong passion for photography turned into his livelihood after he left Cleveland Police, which he served with for nearly two decades – is now focused on giving customers with a unique experience.

He is also able to take advantage of the idyllic rural area that surrounds The Old Brewery – and the striking architecture of the business centre itself – to create the perfect images for clients.

“I have always been fascinated by photography and carried a camera at all times during my time with the Army in Northern Ireland and as an officer with both the Metropolitan and Cleveland Police,” he said.

“Many photographers can only offer a plain studio backdrop, which can become a little tiresome, particularly for children, during a photoshoot.

“I was very keen to move to The Old Brewery because there is wonderful potential to take families outside into the nearby green fields, get them enjoying themselves and produce some fantastic pictures in a natural environment.”