A MAN from Weaverham who has set up his own drone business has high hopes that his idea will take off.

Chris Pickering recently founded aerial imaging company OVA-Drone after taking a keen interest in the technology’s picture-taking capability.

The 49-year-old, who lives in a narrowboat docked between Rudheath and Davenham, undertook a rigorous course to allow him to gain his flying licence.

And he now has strong ambitions of using his drone to capture some of the stunning features which make up the Northwich landscape.

Northwich Guardian:

Hawkstone Hall

“I was initially interested in drones after seeing the incredible images that could be achieved with them,” Chris said.

“I purchased my first drone over three years ago and was a keen hobbyist until this year, when I made the decision to apply for commercial flying licence.

“Initially I was a little overwhelmed by the amount that I had to learn, but it enabled me to learn and test myself repeatedly, which paid dividends in the end as I passed with a score of 97 per cent.”

Since gaining his licence, Chris has been travelling the length and breadth of the country, snapping many of the UK’s most picturesque scenery and landmarks.

And he is keen to see just how high the company can soar, with big projects planned for the near future.

Northwich Guardian:

Staffordshire moorlands

“I will be flying out to the far east later this month for a tour of Thailand and cannot wait to capture some images and footage during the trip,” Chris added.

“As well as this, I am currently learning how to utilise my drone to survey agriculture, solar energy, wind farms and roofs.

“One of the things I have learnt is that flying a drone professionally is something that you have to keep training for, and you have to keep up to date with technological advancements.

“In the future I would love for my images to be a part of the cultural fabric of Northwich and hopefully do some work for Northwich BID.”

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Northwich Quay

Chris has also been commissioned to film shots of the gothic Barnes Hospital building in Cheadle, which is to be restored and converted into apartments.

To see more of his drone images and for more information about the company, visit ova-drone.com.