AN underwater photographer from Bolton is appealing for a sponsor to allow him to continue his studies in a highly specialised field.

Daniel Bamping, 22, of Hillside Avenue, Bromley Cross, is already a specialist in the filming and photography of environmental and wildlife subjects.

And at the end of next month the former Thornleigh pupil hopes to start a one-year post graduate course in Underwater Film and Photography at Plymouth College of Art and Design.

He qualified for the course earlier this Summer after successfully completing a BA Hons Degree in Film and Photography at the Newport School of Art and Design. A qualified scuba diver, Daniel is now in desperate need of funding to carry him through to his chosen career and said: "I have started writing to companies and trust funds but seem to be getting nowhere fast.

"Without financial assistance I will not be able to do this course.

"I specialised in natural history at Newport and at Plymouth I will concentrate on making an environmental film.

"Ideas that I am currently working on include water pollution and the effects of the Milford Haven oil spill one year on, and the destruction and preservation of marine and coral reefs."

He will also carry out a study of people who work underwater including police divers, oil workers and marine biologists.

"I am particularly keen to hear from companies in the Bolton area. All I can offer them is the chance to support a local artist and a credit at the end of my film - or alongside my photographs should they be exhibited or published."

Anyone who would like to help can contact Daniel on Bolton 307589 or mobile on (0831) 658492.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.