A FORMER mayor of Uttoxeter is returning to take up office space by bringing his professional photography business back into the town centre.
Lensman Howard Grigg, who served as town mayor between 2009 and 2010, is a renowned photographer working with a variety of high profile clients.
His business — Inspire — was formerly based in Market Place but after closing the shop and becoming home-based, the ex-councillor has now set up in new offices in High Street.
Sharing a facility with new company Star Photo above Newlife in the town centre, Mr Grigg offers high-class photography work and he told the Advertiser what Inspire offers clients and how the return to town centre premises came about.
He said: “I’ve been working from home since closing the shop in Market Place but I keep constantly being asked for studio work.
“An opportunity arose where I could work in harmony with Lisa and Helen at Star Photo where we could share a facility that will keep the overheads down for me and assist them in the launch of their business.
“The market I am aiming for is portraits, weddings, corporate and also product photography.
“I’ve spent the last three years working for some top agencies in London and doing some work for some big companies.
“Among the work I’ve done was a campaign with Sir Steve Redgrave for Matalan and I’ve also been doing work for Northern Racing.” Mr Grigg can often be seen taking snaps at various events across the town as he works with the Advertiser and he is keen to use that position to help his hometown He said: “I’m now doing work again with the Uttoxeter newspapers which gets me out and about in the area.
“After being mayor and having a very proud year in the role I feel it is important that the town is supported in anyway it can be.
“Working for the papers gives me an opportunity to find out problems in the town and try to help resolve them.” Inspire will also be adding another string to its bow as Mr Grigg will be offering budding photographers a chance to learn the craft in great surroundings.
He said: “I’m intending to do some photography courses where we can go out with students and their cameras and show them how to use them.
“I’ve struck a deal with a local company which will mean I will be able to take students off site and take pictures of animals.
“These would be photographic away days and I have done a deal with this company where we can use their on-site educational facilities as well.” To contact Inspire visit www.inspire-photography.net, email administrator@gallerystudio.org or call 07932 817 221.
