TEESDALE artist Andy Beck has been nominated for an award following publication of a book of 1,500 watercolours inspired by the Lakeland fells.

The artist spent ten years exploring the area and taking photographs from the same spots where famous fell walker Alfred Wainwright stood for his seven pictorial guides more than 60 years ago.

His publication, The Wainwrights in Colour, is shortlisted in the book of the year category for The Great Outdoors Magazine’s Great Outdoors Awards 2017.

Mr Beck, 59, said his “labour of love” was worth it when he was able to print his limited edition book. Only 5,000 copies are available, individually numbered and signed, at 21 independent book shops. So far he has sold more than 1,800 copies.

During the course of the project, he undertook two rounds of the 214 Wainwright fells – walking a total of 1,746 miles and ascending 580,000ft.

Mr Beck, who lives in Bowes, is one of 13 finalists in the category and will find out if he is the winner at the awards ceremony at Kendal Mountain Festival next month.

He said: “It’s amazing to be shortlisted. This is probably my only chance on this book so it’s make or break for me.”

He added: “It’s quite a thrill and I’m quite excited but I know it’s a difficult game. If I won the title, it would be amazing.”

Since the launch of his book in May, including a short film on his adventures, the artist has been giving talks about his experiences – many for charitable causes.

He praised his wife, Esther, for her help and support which included proof reading the final copy.

“This has been a very selfish occupation for me,” he said. “I went through two pairs of boots, but I was not bothered about the miles. I wasn’t going to take any shortcuts.”

He added: “I’m never going to do anything like this again and I’m really proud.”

Mr Beck had no formal training as an artist, merely an O-level in art, and is self-taught.

After serving in the RAF until 1988, he opened the Teesdale Gallery in Barnard Castle, which he ran for 20 years until 2013 when he closed it in order to concentrate on completing his project. He now working on his next challenge.

For full details visit andybeckartist.co.uk/the-wainwrights-in-colour/the-wainwrights-in-colour-the-book or to vote for him visit tgomagazine.co.uk/news/tgo-awards-2017-shortlists. Voting closes on November 15.