A BUDDING photographer has won recognition for his artistry at a national ceremony.

A BUDDING photographer has won recognition for his artistry at a national ceremony.

Michael Fiddy, 48, won the photography category for his picturesque photo of Loch Neaton, in Watton.

Mr Fiddy, who lives at Kalmia and Mallow on Dereham Road, in Watton, a Craegmoor home which provides support for people with learning difficulties, also won third prize in the overall national Craegmoor Artist of the Year Awards.

He was presented with a certificate of achievement, an arts and crafts set and a cheque for �125 at a prize-giving ceremony, held in a luxury hotel in Gloucestershire.

Mr Fiddy said: 'I love visiting Loch Neaton with my friends and taking pictures. Now I have won I'll be taking lots more pictures for next year.'

Speaking after the prize-giving ceremony Craegmoor CEO Ted Smith added: 'Supporting people to achieve their goals is what Craegmoor is all about.

'I hope that Michael will gain even more confidence from this achievement and I really look forward to seeing his next entry for the 2010 Awards.'

The home of Mr Fiddy, Kalmia and Mallow, was recently recognised as a 'leading light' after a thorough inspection.

The building, on Dereham Road in Watton, was also awarded an 'excellent' status from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Leading light status was awarded after an inspection of 14 homes in the area and marks it out as one of the best.

Manager Nanette Phillips, said the aim was to allow residents to lead as normal and independent a life as possible.

'It's about teaching them and if takes them an hour and a half to tie their shoe lace that's a big achievement for them,' she said.

'Achieving these statuses is about recognition for the hard work me and my team do. I want my staff to feel recognised and valued.'

A total of 20 staff work at the home which also received �200 and a certificate for its achievements.