A PARTIALLY sighted photographer has been recognised for his camera skills and awarded a national accolade.

Ian Kitchin, a long term member of Accrington Camera Club has been awarded the Licentiateship of the Disabled Photographers Society.

The accolade is awarded for a high degree of proficiency and the demonstration of technical skills.

Ian, 73, from Rishton lost the vision in his left eye in 2001 and got a new false eye after he suffered a torn retina.

Then in 2005 his right eye started to tear but doctors managed to save it, though he has been left only able to make out outlines.

For the accolade he had to submit a panel of 10 prints, which included photographs of a steam train and the Angel of the North.

Ian said: "I have been taking photographs since I was a boy, it is something that I really enjoy.

"I've been a member of Accrington Camera Club for the past 17 years.

"In 2001 I woke up one day unable to see with what I describe as frog spawn in my left eye. The doctors were unable to save it and I had a false eye fitted.

"Despite just having the one eye I could see relatively well, but then in 2005 my other eye started to go.

"I had an operation on it but I have been left with very limited vision. Everything is very blurred and I can basically just see outlines, I am unable to read or recognise faces.

"I am very fortunate though because I have good spacial awareness, so I have coped relatively well.

"I found I could use a digital camera by using the strong magnifying glass on the back screen, and because I have been taking pictures for a long time I have been able to continue with my hobby.

"I decided to enter the competition in March and was thrilled to bits when I got a phone call to say that I was one of two people to be awarded the licentiateship."

A selection of Ian's work is on show as part of the Annual Exhibition of Accrington Camera Club at The Haworth Art gallery until July 25.

All his images can be seen on his website www.iankitchin.talktalk.net