A STRIKING image of a welder at work has seen a Ramsbottom photographer shortlisted for a prestigious national prize highlighting industrial photography.

Nick Freeman’s remarkable photograph, named ‘The spray booth’, will now go on display in the House of Commons next month.

The 30-year-old commercial photographer, who runs 246 Photography in Whalley Road, has been shortlisted in the professional category of the 'Make it Britain' awards.

Nick took his shot in June last year while on a job photographing the many industrial areas at Hull-based company RMC Digital Print.

The contest, sponsored by manufacturers’ organisation EEF and finance company Lombard, aims to raise the profile of British manufacturing by showcasing the industry’s creativity.

Nick said: “The competition is all about industrial images to celebrate British industry and I knew I had some shots which fitted the bill perfectly.

“I entered two, and was delighted to find out this one had been shortlisted.

“Knowing my work will be displayed in the House of Commons is the icing on the cake.”

Hull-born Nick, who moved to Ramsbottom two and a half years ago and has been a commercial photographer for 11 years, will see his photograph go on display in Parliament on December 11 after an awards ceremony.

He added: “Manufacturing offers endless opportunities for creative, dramatic and eye-catching images, but the tricky part is really capturing its essence and therefore the imagination of the judges.”

Barrie Street, Customer Marketing Manager at sponsors Canon UK, said: “This competition is about capturing the spirit of modern-day manufacturing and Nick has to be congratulated for taking a standout photograph that does exactly that.

“His image successfully captures the rich innovation and importance of industry in Britain today, and I very much look forward to seeing it displayed in Parliament.”

For more information about the awards: go to eef.org.uk/campaigning/awards-and-competitions/photography-competition.