CARMARTHENSHIRE attraction Aberglasney is delighted that its photographer, Nigel McCall, has been recognised for the tenth year in a row in the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition for two of his stunning images.

International Garden Photographer of the Year is one of the world's most respected photography competitions and exhibitions.

Nigel takes photos of the Gardens for pleasure rather than rewards, but he said: it is always heart-warming when given accolades for the hobby I enjoy doing so much.”

‘Crimson Cascade’ has been awarded Highly Commended. Nigel took the photo last October in the Upper Walled Garden when both the Sorbus and Vitis coignetiae were in autumn colour together.

Highly Commended: Crimson Cascade
Highly Commended: Crimson Cascade (Photo: Nigel McCall)

‘Autumn Glory’ (the main image for this story) is a picture from the past: an early morning autumnal shot that was taken in the Asiatic Garden in November 2016. It has been awarded Commended. It is a view towards the 'Japanese Gate' at the top end of the gardens, over the lawn, which was removed in 2028.

Nigel’s breathtaking images have won a staggering 21 awards from the competition over the last ten years. Awards include three first places, one third place, six finalist, seven highly commended and four commended places.

A collection of Nigel’s award-winning photographs of Aberglasney Gardens through the seasons and over the past few years, are currently on display in an exhibition in the Mansion. A book of Nigel’s images entitled ‘Aberglasney Gardens – a calendar year’ is available to purchase in the gift shop alongside jigsaws and postcards using some of his award-winning images.

Aberglasney Gardens’ Director Helen Scutt congratulated Nigel on this latest recognition of his hard work and dedication.

“We are very grateful to him for all the time he puts in to visiting Aberglasney and producing such amazing photographs, she added. “It’s thanks to Nigel that we’re blessed with a wealth of beautiful images of the gardens throughout the seasons.”

Nigel has been a volunteer and member of Aberglasney since 2014. He has a great interest in photography and has spent many years documenting Aberglasney’s changing seasons with over 2,600 images of the Gardens.