A DALE photographer is to give a portion of the proceeds from online sales of his new coffee table book to a charity offering support during the Covid-19 lockdown.
The efforts of Utass (Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services) to offer a lifeline to vulnerable people living in rural parts of the dale is to be given a boost by supporter Martin Rogers, whose most popular photographs have been put together in a new book.
Essential Teesdale was launched last week and for each copy sold on his website, he will be donated £2 to Utass.
Another £2 will be given when a buyer is able to collect their copy without paying postage.
Mr Rogers started planning his book earlier this year and had initially hoped to take delivery of 200 copies in April.
Mr Rogers said: “The book has changed somewhat from what I initially had in mind, and grown; it’s A4 landscape, and has ended up as 76 pages.
“It’s not surprising that it’s changed, since the world is a rather different place now compared with when I started.
“I hope that the book will not only be enjoyed by folk who are unable to get out into the dale, but also may play a part in helping those in the hospitality trade get their businesses back on their feet when things ease up.”
He hopes the images will help promote the beauty of the dale landscape and encourage more people to visit the area when it is safer to do so.
To this end he is offering a discount on the cost of the book to accommodation providers who might want to send them to loyal customers.
People who order a book online can arrange for collection from Utass, McFarlane’s Butchers and Tees’Pot cafe in Middleton-in-Teesdale.
It is also on sale at Utass’ offices when it opens for the twice weekly Post Office service.
To order a copy visit essential-teesdale.co.uk.
