A DARLINGTON bus driver is hoping some of his wildlife photos will appear on television.

Gil Laverick has spent 18 months building up a portfolio of his photographic work, which centres on wildlife and nature scenes.

He has submitted some of his work to be used by BBC's Countryfile programme.

The Arriva driver, who lives in Stockton, spends as much time as he can on his hobby.

During the summer, he visited St Kilda, off the west coast of Scotland, to take shots of the flora and fauna.

He said: "The place brought back some wonderful memories. It's even more spectacular than when I was stationed there with the Army in the early 1960s. My favourite shot in the collection is one I took of a sunrise while standing on the pier at Saltburn.

"It's a spontaneous picture and really is quite stunning."

Mr Laverick was taught the basics of photography by a friend he met in Germany during his time in the Army.

Liz Esnouf, commercial director for Arriva North-East, said: "Many of our employees bring to their hobbies and interests the same dedication and commitment that they bring to their work.

"On behalf of all his colleagues here at Arriva North-East, I'd like to wish Gil all the best for getting his pictures published - let's hope we see some on Countryfile."