AMATEUR snapper Mark Brogan has taken to the skies to photograph the beautiful countryside surrounding Bolton — but the 30-year-old is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.

For the property company director has been using his own drone — a £550 DG1 Phantom — to take the perfect picture.

The married father-of-one from Bradshaw captured the picture above showing Peel Tower, Holcombe Hill and Ramsbottom by using the remote-controlled aircraft with camera  attached.

He bought the drone two months ago and his next aim is to visit Scout Moor, which lies between Edenfield, Rawtenstall and Rochdale, on November 5 to capture images of bonfires and firework displays.

Mr Brogan, of Bradshaw Hall Drive, said: “A friend showed me some photos and video footage taken by drones, and I thought it was a really interesting way to take pictures.

“I have always been into technology, and this is something that really appealed to me.

“The drone itself connects to your mobile phone so you can see what it is seeing through the phone while you control it, and can choose the perfect moment to take the picture.

“There have been so many pictures taken of Peel Tower as it is such an iconic landmark in the area, but I have never seen any from that perspective before. I was keen to try and get the shot from over the shoulder of the hill, looking down the valley towards Ramsbottom.”

DG1 Phantom drones are available on eBay for between £500 and £600 but more expensive models cost up to £1,000.

Mr Brogan said some photographers referred to drone cameras as “quadcopters” to avoid associations with military operations.

He added: “There are some negative associations with drones, but when taking pictures it is just important you are careful and know where you can and cannot fly them as there are rules on using them in built-up areas.

“They are allowed up to heights of 500ft and can be quite difficult to control so take some getting used to, but after two months I am getting the hang of it.

“People have taken all kinds of amazing shots with drones — over the plains of the Serengeti, over the sea where you can see blue whales and on the rim of volcanoes.

“For me, the appeal is being able to capture amazing photographs.”