CHANGING seasons at Thorp Perrow Arboretum in North Yorkshire, captured on more than 50 visits, have culminated in an exhibition by photographer Rod Bennington.

After taking pictures for 40 years, this is the first major show for Mr Bennington which is being held in Richmond until May 13.

Spanning 85 acres, Thorp Perrow Arboretum is one of the finest private collections of trees and shrubs in the country. It was created by Colonel Sir Leonard Ropner and is now owned and managed by Sir John Ropner who was impressed by Mr Bennington's dedication to the project.

"I hope the exhibition reflects the diverse, splendour and tranquillity which lured me time and time again to," Mr Bennington said.

"Having always had a great affinity for water, woodland, plants and the special quality of light early and late in the day, photographing them is now something of an obsession for me."

Mr Bennington’s wife, June, said her husband’s enthusiasm is what impressed the owners of Thorp Perrow, which resulted in them asking him to produce an exhibition.

“The owners were very impressed seeing him always turn up at 4am. He wanted to get the early morning light.”

She also said how an injury to her husband resulted in him spending more time at Thorp Perrow. “After breaking his Achilles, Rod needed somewhere flat to go. He always liked going to Thorp Perrow. It was a safe place for him to go without the risk of any waterfalls to fall down.”

Mr Bennington’s work can be viewed at www.rodbenningtonphotography.com. A Year at Thorp Perrow is on display at Richmond Station until May 13.