A DAD-of-two who first took up photography 20 years ago has won an industry award for his dedication to capturing weddings.

Gavin Tomkins, from Fearnhead, scooped the award for best north west photographer at the County Brides North West Wedding Awards.

The achievement comes 16 years after the 41-year-old shot his first wedding and fell in love with telling the story of a couple's big day.

Gavin said: "I absolutely love shooting weddings, as it is being around lovely people on what will be the best day of their lives and I get to tell the story- what's not to love about that?

"I enjoy helping my couples, whether it's with ideas or choosing suppliers, I like my couples to know I'm here if they need me.

"I shoot lots of other types of photography but I like to work with people mostly.

"At weddings I get to capture a great balance of natural and posed images to create a personal story of my couple's special day."

The prestigious bridal awards ceremony, which was held at The Mere Country Club, attracted 400 wedding specialist from across the north west as they battled it out to be crowned best in the industry.

Gavin said: "I went to the ceremony proud to be a finalist and ready to have a great night celebrating the amazing industry which I’m proud to be part of, when my name was called as the winner of my category.

"I was completely shocked but absolutely thrilled!

"This award means so much to me as not only was I nominated by one of my fantastic bride and grooms, but the award is voted for by couples who I have worked with over the last three years.

"I'm so happy to have won the award. To know I'm doing my job right means a lot and I truly appreciate all the votes I received."

When Gavin is not working, he likes to travel with his wife and children in their campervan.