The events were, I have to say, truly memorable, with the first taking place at Elmley Nature Reserve's brand-new venue, The Stables.
With the sun shining and a full glass-end offering uninterrupted, sweeping views of the marsh, it couldn't have been held in a better location!
Elmley Book details and purchase
Except for Stephen Dalton, the author of the book's foreword, everyone I wanted to attend was there, including photographer Niall Benvie, who had been incredibly helpful in the early stages of narrowing down the images. Remarkably, he happened to be 'passing through' while travelling from his home in France to Scotland!
Elmley's owner, Philip Merricks, delivered a wonderful introductory speech before handing over the proceedings to me.
Books were presented to Philip and to Elmley’s directors, Gareth and Georgina, with specially invited guests - including purchasers of the Deluxe Collector’s Edition - who had the opportunity to be handed their books in person.
Father and son
Once the formalities were over, everyone enjoyed the space and the outdoor area. Really, the launch simply couldn't have been held anywhere else.
Yours truly, with the book's editor, Keith Wilson and designer, Eddie Ephraums.
And, of course, my biggest supporter - my rock - Martina.
Just four days later, I gave a talk titled "Elmley: The Making of the Book" to support the Elmley Nature Reserve Community Interest Company. During the presentation, I took the audience on a journey through my earliest memories and photographs of the reserve. I also discussed the process of creating the Elmley photo book and shared the stories behind some of my favourite images featured in the publication.
Meanwhile, I was busy preparing Elmley: first light to last orders for shipping.
Again, a truly wonderful occasion with, importantly, not an inconsiderable sum raised for an excellent cause.
*Elmley Nature Reserve Community Interest Company is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to managing public access to the Reserve. Run by volunteers, it incurs minimal administrative and communication costs, ensuring every penny goes toward maintaining visitor access and supporting nature projects.
*Images supplied with the kind permission of Andy Newman and John Nurden.
