Philip, 40, was forced to give up his job as a stretch limousine driver after being diagnosed with benign intercranial hypertension in 1999.

He was told by doctors he would remain on benefits for the rest of his life as he would never be fit enough to work again. He suffered severe memory loss and received brain surgery to fit a device down his spinal column and into his stomach to continually relieve the pressure inside his head.

But refusing to accept his sentence, Philip pursued an education in photography and later won several British Institute of Professional Photographers fine art awards, became the official Download festival snapper and began teaching the subject to University of Hull students. He’s now celebrating the opening of his own portrait studio in Ousegate, Selby, having made a full recovery from his serious illness.

Philip said: “I took what was a bad situation and turned it into something good. Photography has given me a whole new lease of life and now I love nothing more than helping people to capture their most treasured memories because I appreciate just how precious those moments are.”

His latest venture sees the opening of Studio Two Photographic Service in the town building he shares with close client the Harman Academy – the stage school attended by budding young actors and actresses, including Emmerdale’s award-winning starlet Eden Taylor-Draper.

Philip, of Ousebank, added: “The business is doing really well and the studio is looking great now the finishing touches are being made to it. It’s a great base to offer my wedding and portrait services from, and develop my reportage and contemporary shots as well as my fine art prints too.”

To contact Philip, call Studio Two Photographic Service on 01757 709895 or 07963 306787, or visit the www.philipbramhill.com website.