function photo(i,c,m,q,d,j,h,o,p,a,l,f,k,b,r,n,g,e){this.id=i;this.galleries_id=c;this.photo_ref=m;this.section_code=q;this.src=d;this.width=j;this.height=h;this.caption=o;this.home=p;this.gallery=a;this.description=l;this.takendate=f;this.photographer=k;this.location=b;this.item_price=r;this.purchase_instruction=n;this.payment_groups_id=g;this.server_id=e;this.src=getServerPath(this.server_id)+"/"+this.src}function gallery(e,c,d,b,a){this.id=e;this.featured_images=c;this.title=d;this.section_code=b;this.photoIDs=a}var backgrounds=new Object();backgrounds[120110]=new photo(120110,"11119","","gallery","Dashwood walk002.JPG",400,267,"Straw bales in the Autumn sun",1,0,"Photographers find it difficult to resist this picture which is so typical of our landscape at this time of year. Charlie Waite will sit for hours waiting for the light. My dogs just want to get on with the walk!","","Robin Barker","High above Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120112]=new photo(120112,"11119","","gallery","Mid May008.JPG",400,267,"Oil Seed Rape in Summer sun",1,0,"I am afraid a ubiquitous sight but photogenically quite appealing. Not enough in the Cherwell Valley to impact seriously on wildlife. ","","Robin Barker","Upper Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120115]=new photo(120115,"11119","","gallery","Summer 2005 MF013.jpg",400,307,"Which way home?",1,0,"The footpath high above Lower Heyford. Which route to follow is anyone's guess. Most of my photos these days are digital but this shot was captured with a Bronica medium format camera shooting Fuji Velvia. The compression needed to publish these pictures on the website is so great you are unlikely to tell the difference!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[120228]=new photo(120228,"11147","","gallery","Heyford church009.jpg",400,270,"St Mary's Lower Heyford - midwinter snow",1,1,"It has been several years since the church of St Mary has witnessed so much snow. As you would expect she takes it in her stride!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120231]=new photo(120231,"11147","","gallery","Heyford church023.JPG",400,300,"St Mary's Lower Heyford, Winter frost",1,1,"This light seldom occurs on a frosty morning and then usually lasts only a few minutes. This photograph is stunning printed out at A3","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120235]=new photo(120235,"11147","","gallery","Heyford church033.JPG",400,267,"St Mary's Lower Heyford - Summer afternoon",1,1,"The diffuse light of a summer afternoon is somewhat paradoxically the least flattering to this lovely old church. Without highlights the stone tends to retreat into an amorphous mass but she still retains her inherent beauty.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120236]=new photo(120236,"11147","","gallery","IMG_1830.JPG",400,267,"St Mary's Lower Heyford - mid morning frost",1,1,"Taken from almost the same spot as the mid - summer picture but how different. How fortunate we are with the seasons. Here the church looks alive and fresh. Another image which looks stunning at A3","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120242]=new photo(120242,"11147","","gallery","IMG_1077.JPG",400,267,"St Mary's Lower Heyford - early morning mid summer",1,1,"I mentioned in my introduction to this gallery that one one of the benefits of photographing from the graveyard(!) is the ability, by moving just a few feet, to change the whole geometry of the picture. This demonstrates well the difference but I have yet to decide how I wish to arrange the stones although the options are almost infinite!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120246]=new photo(120246,"11147","","gallery","IMG_1868.JPG",400,267,"St Mary's Lower Heyford - early morning winter light",1,1,"I am so pleased with this picture! Only on this single occasion in the six years I have been photographing this church has the early morning light been so gorgeous and intense. I celebrated by using the triple stone forground - one of my favourite configurations. Please be assured I never move the stones - only my feet!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120248]=new photo(120248,"11147","","gallery","MF  7  50mm.jpg",400,307,"St Mary's Lower Heyford",1,1,'An unusually long shot that I think works quite well. I was determined to give an outing to the 40mm lens on my medium format camera so my options were limited. This is often an advantage in landscape photography as it forces your mobility rather than relying on the zoom control. This turned out to be one of my favourite pictures of the church and has given her "a new look"',"","","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120552]=new photo(120552,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1084 copy.jpg",600,400,"Paines Cottage",1,1,"Paines is a very old family name in the Cherwell Valley although their occupancy of this property was many years ago.With its annexe, just visible on the right of the picture, it is one of the most attractive cottages in the village. Originally three cottages, the centre of which dates back to the sixteenth century. It is currently (June 2006) being re-thatched and will look beautiful when completed<br>\r\n","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120560]=new photo(120560,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1082.JPG",400,267,"The Old Post Office",1,1,"Opposite Paines Cottage so very convenient to post a letter. Lovely property with garden going down to the canal. Was the coal merchants in previous incarnation.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120568]=new photo(120568,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1141.JPG",400,270,"The Mill House",1,1,"This is one of the most imposing properties in this essentially unpretentious village. Two very large oak gates prevent all but the occasional glimpse of the house.I do not impose upon owners so to take this picture I had to balance my camera on the top of the gates which have a curved frame. I use Photoshop as little as possible but it has been necessary to correct a significant resulting slant!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120591]=new photo(120591,"11176","","gallery","IMG_0097_DxO_raw copy copy.jpg",400,259,"The Old School House",1,1,"A mixture of stone and roof tiles add to the appeal of this landmark in Market Square. There used to be, until recently a very attractive wrought iron fence running along the entire front of the property. It suddenly disappeared!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120594]=new photo(120594,"11176","","gallery","IMG_2431_2.JPG",638,420,"The Old Forge",1,0,"A lovely old property, which used to be the village forge. The garden goes down to the canal. The wisteria, which needs constant maintenance, is a feature of the front elevation. This is a stunning picture at A3 and I have to confess to the removal of the overhaed power cables in Photoshop.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120599]=new photo(120599,"11151","","gallery","Film scan001.jpg",400,256,"The canal in late summer",1,1,"The images from the towpath change much more than a casual observer would imagine as the seasons roll by. The overhanging trees are particularly lovely at this time of year","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120604]=new photo(120604,"11151","","gallery","Late Autumn020.JPG",400,282,"Canal boats - Autumn",1,1,"Waiting for the right light is never dull on the tow path as the scene is constantly changing!","","Robin Barker","Near Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120607]=new photo(120607,"11151","","gallery","MF 11  50mm.jpg",400,309,"Canal near swing bridge",1,0,"Another velvia shot at MF.I like it!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120671]=new photo(120671,"11151","","gallery","IMG_10981.JPG",400,267,"Lock at Upper Heyford",1,1,"Very busy in season  with boats queing more than five a side!","","Robin Barker","Upper Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120675]=new photo(120675,"11151","","gallery","Spring Negs n001.jpg",400,256,"Verdant view",1,1,"Very changeable view according to season.","","Robin Barker","Upper Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120690]=new photo(120690,"11152","","gallery","Autumn afternoon006.JPG",400,300,"River in flood",1,1,"The flood plain is designed to flood and it does so regularly!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120722]=new photo(120722,"11152","","gallery","IMG_1865.JPG",400,258,"An Autumn glow",1,1,"The leaves have gone but the evening sun more than compensates.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120732]=new photo(120732,"11152","","gallery","MF  12  50mm.jpg",400,308,"Below the Mill",1,1,"I have said elsewhere that this is one of my favourite locations. This is a late autumn medium format view captured on Fuji Superia","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120739]=new photo(120739,"11152","","gallery","Rousham009.JPG",400,267,"Passing through Rousham park",1,1,"How different the river here looks on a sweltering summer morning. Not a good time of day for photography but at least one can revel in the sumptuous greens","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[120746]=new photo(120746,"11152","","gallery","Rousham013.JPG",400,267,"In Rousham park",1,1,"A lovely summer morning. Not visible here but a haven for reed buntings.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[121121]=new photo(121121,"11259","","gallery","IMG_1666.JPG",400,267,"The view from Bloubergstrand",1,1,"I just adore this view. Blouberstrand is a few miles up the West Coast and replicates the first sighting of Table Mountain that seafarers and travellers had for centuries. Capetown is just visible at its foot.","","Robin Barker","Bloubergstrand, South Africa","","","",18);backgrounds[121122]=new photo(121122,"11259","","gallery","IMG_1663.JPG",400,267,"Bloubergstrand beach",1,1,"Oiled penguins recovered from much of Southern Africa are released here after treatment. They find their way back to their original beaches, sometimes 300/400 miles away in a matter of days. ","","Robin Barker","Bloubergstrand","","","",18);backgrounds[121157]=new photo(121157,"11259","","gallery","IMG_1668.JPG",400,267,"The classic view from Blouberstrand",1,1,"It is  difficult to imagine the beauty of the city which nestles at the foot of this great landmark. The outcrop  on the right is Lion Head, around which you pass to the beach at Camps Bay.","","Robin Barker","Bloubergstrand","","","",18);backgrounds[121158]=new photo(121158,"11259","","gallery","South Africa 2001003.jpg",400,267,"Capetown and Signal Hill from Table Mountain",1,1,"The view from the top of Table Mountain should never be described. Just go and see for yourself.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121159]=new photo(121159,"11259","","gallery","South Africa 2001001.jpg",400,267,"Cape Town centre from Table Mountain",1,1,"This image gives some idea of the scale of Cape Town. Bloubergstrand is barely visible in the top left of the picture.","","Robin Barker","Table Mountain Top","","","",18);backgrounds[121160]=new photo(121160,"11259","","gallery","South Africa 2002017.jpg",400,269,"Summer evening from Bloubergstrand",1,1,"I have never seen two identical pictures of this famous landmark. There is no table cloth on this summer afternoon where the light is much mellower than in the morning pictures.","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[121274]=new photo(121274,"11291","","gallery","IMG_1364.JPG",400,267,"Mount Nelson Hotel - garden",1,1,"Drink a bottle of Vergelegen Sauvignon Blanc here - paradise!","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121275]=new photo(121275,"11291","","gallery","IMG_1233.JPG",400,300,"Mount Nelson Hotel - driveway",1,1,"The guard will salute you as you pass through the gateway and into this impressive drive.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121278]=new photo(121278,"11291","","gallery","IMG_1365.JPG",400,267,"The Garden pool",1,1,"The pool and adjacent garden can be seen from the breakfast room. At precisely 8am the boys and girls bring into the garden several hundred sun loungers and cushions. They start the day in a straight line. Straight means straight at the Mount Nelson.The team lines up alongside the chairs and the leader stands at one end calling the number of the chair which may need adjusting an inch or two to  ensure a ruler straight line!<br>\r\nGuests are then invited to indicate where on the lawn they would like reside.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121286]=new photo(121286,"11291","","gallery","South Africa 2001016.jpg",400,276,"Mount Nelson - Garden in summer",1,1,"This extensive garden has everything. You can, of course, relax by a pool but you may also find shade among the trees or by fishponds or tennis courts and croquet greens.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121329]=new photo(121329,"11302","","gallery","South Africa 20010091.jpg",400,268,"A  public building viewed from Company Gardens",1,1,"One of many grand buildings which line Company Gardens","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121330]=new photo(121330,"11302","","gallery","South Africa 2001049 (2).jpg",800,535,"Groote Schuur",1,1,"The home of every President until Nelson Mandela, who felt it was too grand. Originally built in 1657 it was substantially rebuilt by Sir Herbert Baker for Cecil Rhodes","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121331]=new photo(121331,"11302","","gallery","Capetown018.JPG",400,300,"Lion Head",1,1,"This outcrop, on the eastern elevation of Table Mountain dominates Sea Point and Camps Bay. Here it is viewed from central Cape Town.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121332]=new photo(121332,"11302","","gallery","Capetown019.JPG",400,300,"Company Gardens",1,1,"A view of Signal Hill from central Cape Town.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121339]=new photo(121339,"11302","","gallery","South Africa 2001018.jpg",400,274,"Sunset from Signal Hill",1,1,"Early signs of a spectacular sunset attracts crowds of locals and visitors complete with picnics and champagne.","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121347]=new photo(121347,"11302","","gallery","Capetown009.JPG",400,300,"Table Mountain from central Cape Town",1,1,"Table Mountain dominates the city. It provides an ever changing scene and is often shrouded in mist, and clouds, its table cloth, roll over its leading edge. ","","Robin Barker","Cape Town","","","",18);backgrounds[121700]=new photo(121700,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1598 copy.jpg",400,267,"The Lake",1,1,"Early morning mist will soon give way to another beautiful day","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121701]=new photo(121701,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1601 copy.jpg",400,267,"Home ",1,1,"This lovely old farmhouse houses the visitors accomodation","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121703]=new photo(121703,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1666 copy.jpg",400,300,"Eucalyptus trees",1,1,"A feature of the landscape throughout this country they are kept in check by farmers to reduce their impact on the water table.","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121704]=new photo(121704,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1674 copy.jpg",400,300,"Peace and tranquility",1,1,"A single eucalyptus tree provides a safe haven for weavers and ibis. This picture looks stunning at A3+ Order one today!!","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121708]=new photo(121708,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1685 copy.jpg",400,300,"The Ellandsberg mountains through trees",1,1,"I have yet to discover a location in this beautiful country where a mountain range does not feature. These eucalyptus trees frame the Ellandsbergs","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[121709]=new photo(121709,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1688 copy.jpg",400,300,"Bailey's Peak",1,1,"This is the highest point in the Ellandsberg range. I had to move my feet once or twice to get the tops of the trees to mimic the mountains!","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121711]=new photo(121711,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1701 copy.jpg",400,300,"Eucalyptus trees",1,1,"These trees are particularly photogenic when they organise themselves so conveniently for the landscape photographer.","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121714]=new photo(121714,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1702 copy.jpg",400,298,"Trees",1,1,"How does one resist such a photo opportunity?","","Robin Barker","W.Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121774]=new photo(121774,"11337","","gallery","Copy (1) of IMG_1574.JPG",400,300,"One of many lawns",1,1,"The living at Bushman's Kloof is easy - you do as you please. All the indigenous animals are here and there are more than 50 Rock Art sites in the hills","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[121776]=new photo(121776,"11337","","gallery","Copy (1) of IMG_1575.JPG",400,300,"Golden stone",1,1,"The sandstone here is beautiful and the early morning sun enhances the glow. No Photoshop necessary for any BK images!","","","SW Cape.","","","",18);backgrounds[121778]=new photo(121778,"11337","","gallery","Copy (1) of IMG_1584.JPG",400,300,"Reeds",1,1,"Red Bishops nest in the reeds vying for the sturdiest with weavers. The male builds the weaver's nest and if the female finds it not up to scratch she'll pull it down!!","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122023]=new photo(122023,"11337","","gallery","Copy (1) of IMG_1589.JPG",400,300,"a lodge",1,1,"Typical of the lodges on this superb estate","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122039]=new photo(122039,"11337","","gallery","IMG_1572.JPG",400,267,"The river at Bushman's Kloof",1,1," In the extreme heat of summer the river remains cool. Even in early spring 40c is commonplace.","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122047]=new photo(122047,"11337","","gallery","IMG_1583.JPG",400,267,"A swimming pool",1,1,"An odd shape for a pool but then nothing is normal on this superb estate","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122054]=new photo(122054,"11337","","gallery","IMG_1597.JPG",400,300,"The Gorge",1,1,"This is much more impressive than can be captured by a photograph. The river runs along the bottom.","","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122056]=new photo(122056,"11337","","gallery","IMG_1626.JPG",400,300,"Early spring flowers",1,1,'South Africa is a carpet of flowers in the early spring - see "West Coast flowers" gallery.',"","Robin Barker","SW Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[122065]=new photo(122065,"11337","","gallery","IMG_1619.JPG",400,300,"Rock Art",1,1,"There are more than 50 sites on this estate and more are still being discovered so vast is the terrain. This is a typical example. One could spend an entire holiday marvelling at paintings some of which are 10,000 years old.","","Robin Barker","Bushman's Kloof","","","",18);backgrounds[122106]=new photo(122106,"11353","","gallery","Bon Cap002.JPG",400,267,"Bon Cap",1,1,"This impressive estate in the Robertson Valley is run by a very lively couple each responsible for the marketing and wine making respectively. All their vines are grown organically but they make no claims that this significantly impacts upon the quality of their wines. They are looking to make a lighter red and are experimenting with the Gamay grape which is best known for Beaujolais. Off the beaton track but well worth a visit. Lunch too!!","","Robin Barker","Robertson","","","",18);backgrounds[122107]=new photo(122107,"11353","","gallery","Fraai Uitzicht008.JPG",400,300,"Frai Uitzight",1,1,"A lovely place to visit and to stay.<br>\r\nSmall amounts of wine made but plenty to drink with dinner and to take home!","","Robin Barker","Robertson","","","",18);backgrounds[122111]=new photo(122111,"11353","","gallery","Graham Beck006.JPG",400,300,"Graham Beck",1,1,"Highly successful producer and his wines taste familiar. That is because they are made for the international marketplace and they are very good too!","","Robin Barker","Robertson and Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[122118]=new photo(122118,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1255.JPG",400,300,"Boschendal",1,1,"Until recently owned by Anglo American, the natural resources giant. On change of ownership South African empowerment laws came into force with the result that Boschendal is now 30% in Black ownership. The wines are exceptionally good, the lunches superb and the estate simply lovely. ","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[122122]=new photo(122122,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1281.JPG",400,287,"Vergelegen",1,1,"I just love this wonderful estate near Somerset West. Still owned by Anglo American, the winemaker claims it is the directors' hobby, the wines are superb and available world wide. Try Sainsburys!<br>\r\nThe Lady Phillips restaurant is situated in a Dutch House of supreme quality and you are assured of a typical SA welcome.","","Robin Barker","Somerset West","","","",18);backgrounds[122130]=new photo(122130,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1547 (2).JPG",600,399,"Rijk's",1,1,"In the Tulbagh 'appelation', not only award winning Chenin Blanc, but an astonishing estate and confortable hotel. It was winter when we were there and we mentioned at dinner that it was untypically cold. When we returned to our room there was a hot water bottle in the bed, an electric blanket and two oil filled radiators miraculously appeared. This country constantly amazes!","","Robin Barker","Tulbagh","","","",18);backgrounds[122138]=new photo(122138,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1818.JPG",400,300,"Chamonix",1,1,"Lovely estate within walking distance of Franschhoek. Enjoy a very modestly priced lunch.","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[122146]=new photo(122146,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1838.JPG",400,300,"Groote Post",1,1,"In the Darling Hills overlooking the South Atlantic this winery produces some lovely Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Among my favourites. Try the Wine Society! The restaurant is managed by a Darling hotelier and his wife and they produce exceptional fare.<br>\r\n","","Robin Barker","Darling","","","",18);backgrounds[122155]=new photo(122155,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1885.JPG",400,300,"Buitenverwachting",1,1,"In Constantia at the back of Table Mountain, this is a beautiful estate. The Sauvignon Blanc is given 4+ by Platter (out of five) and it really is exceptional. The restaurant is superb and many critics rate it among the best in South Africa. The view from the restaurant window is staggering and had I not limited myself to one picture for each winery I would have shown this view.If you are in Capetown and wish to go to just one estate then choose this one!","","Robin Barker","Constantia","","","",18);backgrounds[122164]=new photo(122164,"11353","","gallery","Springfield003.JPG",400,300,"Springfield",1,1,"A modest estate but Abe the winemaker just happens to make a Sauvignon Blanc which has achieved almost cult status. It is called 'Life from Stone' from its origins on a rocky outcrop in the vineyard. It is just heavenly, Flinty, gooseberries, melons, peaches and a little lemon. And a complex aftertaste that lingers until the next bottle. Try the Wine Society!","","Robin Barker","Robertson","","","",18);backgrounds[122171]=new photo(122171,"11353","","gallery","Zevenwacht002.JPG",400,300,"Zevenwacht",1,1,"Near Stellenbosch, the capital of South African wine, it is in a beautiful setting. Picnics and lunches in a very pleasant old restaurant and walks around the lake. Not to be missed!","","Robin Barker","Stellenbosch","","","",18);backgrounds[122183]=new photo(122183,"11353","","gallery","Zorgvliet etc012.JPG",400,291,"Zorgvliet",1,1,"Lovely old property, good views and very pleasant wine.","","Robin Barker","Stellenbosch","","","",18);backgrounds[122851]=new photo(122851,"11391","","gallery","IMG_1375 (2).JPG",600,400,"The Chapel at Trossachs",1,1,"The Trossachs is a lovely wedding venue and place to stay. It is high on the hills overlooking McGregor. Here the chapel is basking in the evening sunset after a wedding.","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122857]=new photo(122857,"11391","","gallery","IMG_1456.JPG",400,600,"Matthew & Tara",1,1,"The air is crystal clear high up in the hills above McGregor and when the sun begins its decent beyond the hills the light is sublime","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122861]=new photo(122861,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor010 (2)1.JPG",600,439,"The Lake at the Old Mill Lodge",1,1,"Weaver nest can just be seen in the reeds here","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122868]=new photo(122868,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor011 (2).JPG",600,459,"Eucalyptus trees by the lake",1,1,"Even the starkness of these trees cannot reduce the temperature in this idyllic setting","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122872]=new photo(122872,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor026 copy (2) (2).jpg",600,436,"The Church at McGregor",1,1,"This is a lovely old building. Both the fabric and the churchyard appear to be in exemplary condition","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122879]=new photo(122879,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor016 (2).JPG",600,449,"Lakeside at 6",1,1,"Yes, I got up at 6am to check the light and I found this! I had only my modest Canon S60 with me but what matter. A pinhole camera would have captured this sublime scene. At A3 it is simply stunning.","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122886]=new photo(122886,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor018 (2).JPG",600,425,"The Lake at 605",1,1,"I've put just a little forground into this picture just to convince myself it is real!","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122890]=new photo(122890,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor019 (2).JPG",600,449,"The lake at 610",1,1,"It just gets better. Standing on the bank of this lake early in the morning I wished to share the experience with the whole world. I was a little short of my objective as no-one was visible in any direction. I think Charlie Waite would have appreciated this landscape but I cannot trace that he has photographed this magnificent country.","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122897]=new photo(122897,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor025 (2).JPG",600,449,"McGregor",1,1,"This 'skyline' shows how small this village is. Everything that is good about South Africa is here. Blacks, coloureds and whites all living in harmony, the McGregor winery, superb accomodation, art galleries and the old wrought iron facades of the Victorian buildings. Hills that capture the early morning sun and mountains that reflect the evening light. Do visit - the people will love to welcome you!","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122903]=new photo(122903,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor038 (2).JPG",600,449,"The lake in the evening sun",1,1,"The light has a different hue in the evening but still attractive for the landscape photographer. This single eucalyptus tree features in a number of my photographs. However long I waited the ripples on the water absolutely refused to subside - never mind, everything else about this country is perfect","","Robin Barker","McGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[122910]=new photo(122910,"11391","","gallery","Macgregor044 (2).JPG",600,449,"My eucalyptus in the evening light",1,1,"How I love this picture. The tree, the lake and the mountains beyond look amazing at A3+. This view alone would draw me back to this staggering country. It has a few other things going for it too and this may well emerge from a casual read of some of my other accolades!!","","Robin Barker","Mc Gregor","","","",18);backgrounds[123210]=new photo(123210,"11444","","gallery","Darling004.JPG",400,344,"Darling church",1,1,"In order to strike a balance I'm showing the church here rather than the wineries!","","Robin Barker","Darling","","","",18);backgrounds[123217]=new photo(123217,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1823.JPG",400,300,"Mist on the Darling Hills",1,1,"Its close proximity to the South Alantic ocean means the inevitable sea mists. It will clear and even in early spring will be very warm","","Robin Barker","Darling","","","",18);backgrounds[123218]=new photo(123218,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1824.JPG",400,300,"The hills at Darling ",1,1,"The Darling Hills are remote although little more than an hours drive from Cape Town","","Robin Barker","Darling","","","",18);backgrounds[123222]=new photo(123222,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1827.JPG",400,300,"New vines",1,1,"To meet the growing demand for high quality grapes new plantings are a common sight in the Darling Hills","","Robin Barker","Darling","","","",18);backgrounds[123223]=new photo(123223,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1842.JPG",400,300,"Mauve",1,1,"A typical West Coast view in early spring","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123227]=new photo(123227,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1843.JPG",400,300,"Encore",1,1,"Beautiful, as soon as  the winter rains cease, the lanscape responds.","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123228]=new photo(123228,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1855.JPG",400,300,"And deep yellows",1,1,"This country is so vast that travelling for miles through a carpet of flowers without seeing a soul is usual and it seems sureal","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123231]=new photo(123231,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1859.JPG",400,300,"I wandered lonely.....",1,1,".....to the sea","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123235]=new photo(123235,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1864.JPG",400,300,"Flowers without end",1,1,"How mother nature decides what should grow where is a complete mystery. But she never blends incompatible hues.","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123236]=new photo(123236,"11444","","gallery","IMG_1869.JPG",400,300,"By the roadside",1,1,"Making progress up to Langebaan is extremely difficult if you are a flower photographer. I was with one and I think we stopped at least 20 times.","","Robin Barker","West Coast","","","",18);backgrounds[123793]=new photo(123793,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster003.JPG",400,300,"At sunset",1,1,"The low sun profiles all the huge boulders on the beach","","Robin Barker","Paternoster","","","",18);backgrounds[123804]=new photo(123804,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster004.JPG",400,300,"A calm sea",1,1,"The sea here is uncomfortably cold even when the air temperature reaches 40c","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[123810]=new photo(123810,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster005.JPG",400,300,"The sun goeth down",1,1,"The light here is sublime","","Robin Barker","Paternoster","","","",18);backgrounds[123821]=new photo(123821,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster006.JPG",400,300,"A cloudless sky",1,1,"The clear evening skies and warm gentle breezes are a feature of this sparesely populated coast","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[123830]=new photo(123830,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster019.JPG",400,300,"Oystercatcher's Haven",1,1,"You can stay here. It is very comfortable, reasonably priced and offers a staggering view","","Robin Barker","Paternoster","","","",18);backgrounds[123841]=new photo(123841,"11480","","gallery","Paternoster020.JPG",400,300,"From Oystercatcher's Haven",1,1,"I saw a boat once from here!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[124154]=new photo(124154,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002001.jpg",400,277,"The lodge - public rooms",1,1,"Visitors are accomodated in thatched lodges in the gardens. A member of staff  is assigned to look after you for your entire stay.","","Robin Barker","Ballito, Kwa Zulu Natal","","","",18);backgrounds[124163]=new photo(124163,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002002.jpg",400,276,"The breakfast room",1,1,"Ther are very few  places to stay here and to the north to the Mozambique border I wouldn't venture unless booked. It really is remote beyond Richards Bay","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124169]=new photo(124169,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002003.jpg",400,278,"The Golf links",1,1,"Between the Lodge and the sea - 18 holes","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124179]=new photo(124179,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002004.jpg",400,274,"The beech pool",1,1,"The sea is chilly and can be dangerous and it is significant that there is no-one in the sea in peak season. No matter, the beech pool is exquisite.","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124182]=new photo(124182,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002007.jpg",400,274,"The top pool",1,1,"No one here yet but it is well before breakfast. The light is good at this time of day. ","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124188]=new photo(124188,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002008.jpg",400,276,"Dawn",1,1,"The light is gorgeous at daybreak.","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124195]=new photo(124195,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002024.jpg",400,275,"The Indian Ocean",1,1,"Most people prefer the safety of the Lodge pools. Not only is the water pretty chilly even in high summer but the sea develops a very strong undertow with the red flag frequently flying.","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124202]=new photo(124202,"11499","","gallery","South Africa 2002025.jpg",400,274,"Para gliding",1,1,"Often defying the red flag para gliders need to be exceptionally strong swimmers as only the most skilled or just lucky don't finish up in the water. ","","Robin Barker","Ballito","","","",18);backgrounds[124478]=new photo(124478,"11523","","gallery","IMG_1656.JPG",400,267,"The Pass 2",1,1,"I like this polarised image. The pool is clear having had the reflections abated and the polarisor just adds a little richness to the stone. At this elevation and in this rather ordinary light the polarisor can be left on the camera to some advantage. ","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[124479]=new photo(124479,"11523","","gallery","IMG_1659.JPG",400,267,"The Pass 3",1,1,"A grey grad would have been useful here but with a car full of hungry people and the Montague restaurant waiting to greet us the temptation to cut and run was just too great.","","Robin Barker","Montague","","","",18);backgrounds[124482]=new photo(124482,"11523","","gallery","IMG_1660.JPG",400,267,"The Pass 1",1,1,"I have used this shot to test generic inks as the gradation of colour in the stone is very revealing. My Canon printers have a voracious appetite for ink at A4 and bigger and Canon don't help by charging as much for a set of inks as for their lower range printers. ","","Robin Barker","Montague","","","",18);backgrounds[124884]=new photo(124884,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1086.JPG",400,267,"Purcell Cottage",1,1,"Fine old cottage, would not look out of place on a chocolate box. ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[124893]=new photo(124893,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1208.JPG",400,330,"The old chapel",1,1,"Very well converted old Weslyan chapel. The garden is a picture especially the hydrangers","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[124914]=new photo(124914,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1850 copy.jpg",600,400,"Steeple Aston view",1,1,"This fine old house, originally a barn which has been on this site for 400 years and built in Hornton stone reflects a wonderful warm glow in the early evening autumn sun.It enjoys a view across the Cherwell Valley to Steeple Aston and the Oxford Canal passes just below its boundary.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[125779]=new photo(125779,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle001.jpg",400,251,"Ready for modernisation",1,1,"We have coveted this old cottage for years. Sadly it has never come on the market and has now been modernised.","","Robin Barker","Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[126248]=new photo(126248,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle002.jpg",400,268,"Cottage modernised",1,1,"Modernisation was completed at a leisurely pace by the French contractor but the work looks to be of a high standard. Just a covetable!","","Robin Barker","Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[126249]=new photo(126249,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle003 (2).jpg",600,381,"Covetable cottage 2",1,1,"What a fabulous position this cottage occupies. Own private mooring, access to the entire gulf and just round the corner, Port Navalo.  Then Quiberon Bay and the open sea. Fabulous!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[126250]=new photo(126250,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle005 (2).jpg",600,385,"Gulf inlet",1,1,"A typical inlet on the Gulf. Note the calmness of the water here. A seabird on every pole but still the tranquility is undisturbed.","","Robin Barker","Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[126251]=new photo(126251,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle006.jpg",400,274,"The road at Pencastle",1,1,"A road skirts the Gulf here and offers a lovely drive to Sarzeau. It occasionally clips the inlets giving memorable views on both sides of the road.","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[126254]=new photo(126254,"11615","","gallery","Pencastle m 0021.jpg",400,301,"Covetable cottage 1",1,1,"I couldn't resist including this wider view of my covetable cottage 1. Could anything be more perfect?","","Robin Barker","Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[126403]=new photo(126403,"11586","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004018.jpg",400,267,"The entrance at sunset",1,1,"This view is constantly changing according to the season, the time of day, the state of the tide, the weather and the traffic. Mostly it is awe inspiring!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[126415]=new photo(126415,"11586","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004029.jpg",400,267,"Playground",1,1,"The Gulf is a haven for Mums and Dads because the sea is so benign the children can be allowed to venture in their Optimists in safety.","","Robin Barker","Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[126421]=new photo(126421,"11586","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004039.jpg",400,267,"Training",1,1,"A line of 'Oppy's' in the background and a  serious training boat.","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[126431]=new photo(126431,"11586","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004052.JPG",400,267,"Secret Island",1,1,"The uninhabited islands seem to welcome boating visitors. From the islands the views in every direction are staggering, even for this beautiful region.","","Robin Barker","Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[126439]=new photo(126439,"11586","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004059.JPG",400,267,"Billcroix",1,1,"If ever I go missing try looking here. I am posting two photographs of this view because I just love it! This shows the entrance at early morning when the light is sublime.","","Robin Barker","Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[126446]=new photo(126446,"11586","","gallery","Port Navalo046.jpg",400,269,"Entrance - mid summer ",1,1,"It is a very dry summer and it is hot on the headland. The grass has died but will soon recover with the autumn rains. Here the mid afternoon sun creates the highly saturated colours, not Photoshop! A view which must be seen!","","Robin Barker","Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[126447]=new photo(126447,"11586","","gallery","Port Navalo063.jpg",400,253,"The homecoming",1,1,"A solitary fishing boat returns in late evening with its catch of lobsters and crabs. They will be in restaurants tomorrow lunchtime!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[128168]=new photo(128168,"11716","","gallery","Auray River002.jpg",400,255,"The river",1,1,"The whole length of this river is unequivocally beautiful","","Robin Barker","The Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[128170]=new photo(128170,"11716","","gallery","Bono002.jpg",400,249,"The bridge at Bono",1,1,"A staging post on the Auray river. Well worth a visit","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[128174]=new photo(128174,"11716","","gallery","Bono012.jpg",400,269,"Bono:  The waterfront",1,1,"Many are holiday homes but why not enjoy this lovely location all year round?","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[128180]=new photo(128180,"11716","","gallery","Image8.jpg",400,261,"Auray moorings",1,1,"The river is so benign boats moored along its length are safe and add to the recreational options.","","Robin Barker","The Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[128189]=new photo(128189,"11716","","gallery","Port Navalo058.jpg",400,262,"The Auray from Billcroix",1,1,"I love this view and use any excuse for using a photograph of it. From here the Auray river goes off to the left top while the Gulf is round to the right. Go and see! There is a fine restaureant just down the road in Port Navalo, The Grande Large which has a picture window offering this view.","","Robin Barker","The Gulf of Morbihan","","","",18);backgrounds[128567]=new photo(128567,"11715","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004066.JPG",400,267,"Confluence",1,1,"The confluence of the Gulf and the Auray river  from Port Navalo on a serene summer's evening","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128570]=new photo(128570,"11715","","gallery","IMG617 (2).jpg",600,401,"Guard",1,1,"An obelisk upon which the Virgin Mary is sculptured stands guard at the entrance to the Gulf at Port Navalo. You should come and join her!","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128573]=new photo(128573,"11715","","gallery","Port Navalo047.jpg",400,269,"The Harbour",1,1,"A summer evening. The setting sun produces glorious saturated colours. Tie up here for a crab or lobster supper. Perfect.","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128576]=new photo(128576,"11715","","gallery","Port Navalo051.jpg",400,269,"The crane",1,1,"Essential facilities are available here.","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128578]=new photo(128578,"11715","","gallery","Port Navalo052.jpg",400,269,"Port Navalo beach",1,1,"Looks out into the Bay of Quiberon. Safe for children with plenty of shells and crabs. The tiny offshore island seen behind the boat is Meabon. It is a bird sanctuary and the anchorage is ideal for a swim and a pre lunch bottle of Muscadet, the local wine followed by lunch and a siesta. Heaven!","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128582]=new photo(128582,"11715","","gallery","Port Navalo m 003.jpg",400,330,"Another bay",1,1,"There are several bays within the Gulf at this picturesque fishing village. This is undiscovered by all but the adventurous ","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[128588]=new photo(128588,"11715","","gallery","Port Navalo m 009.jpg",400,307,"Billcroix",1,1,"No set of photographs of this area would be complete without an example of my favourite view. I make no apologies, it is simply glorious here. This picture was taken with a medium format camera and Fuji Reala negative film. The light was not particularly flattering to the scene but was very clear. The houses on the horizon are crystal clear at A3. Buy one!!","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[129171]=new photo(129171,"11860","","gallery","Franchoek006.JPG",400,278,"Vineyards",1,1,"This little town is surrounded by vineyards. Some of the best wine of South Africa is grown here.","","Robin Barker","Franscchoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129172]=new photo(129172,"11860","","gallery","Franchoek012.JPG",400,300,"The view from the town",1,1,"Wherever you are in this gorgeous country you are within sight of a mountain range. The Franschhoek<br>\r\nPass overlooks the town.","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129173]=new photo(129173,"11860","","gallery","Franchoek016.JPG",400,300,"Houses",1,1,"There are some lovely properties here and security is not as prominent as in the larger cities","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129175]=new photo(129175,"11860","","gallery","IMG_1813.JPG",400,300,"The Pass",1,1,"A spectacular pass and covered in wild flowers in the early spring. The view of Franschhoek from here is breathtaking","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129176]=new photo(129176,"11860","","gallery","IMG_1817.JPG",400,300,"Franschhoek from the Pass",1,1,"The town and its vineyards yield their perspective from here.","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129177]=new photo(129177,"11860","","gallery","Le Quartier Francais011.JPG",400,300,"Le  Quartier Francais",1,1,"This Relais is one of the best small hotels in South Africa and sometime voted 'the best'. The cuisine is exquisite.","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[129823]=new photo(129823,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004079.jpg",400,267,"Crouesty first light",1,1,"The pattiserie will be opening up soon for breakfasters","","Robin Barker","Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129824]=new photo(129824,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty042.jpg",400,256,"Port Crouesty Yacht basin",1,1,"There is a satisfying harmony here with a variety of boats (nearly all French built of course)and the appartments none of which exceeds 3 stories high anywhere on the extensive complex","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129825]=new photo(129825,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty054.jpg",400,268,"Events",1,1,"International yachting events are co-ordinated from here. The facilities are first class and the cost of keeping a boat here is less than half as much as on the south coast of England","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129827]=new photo(129827,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty022.jpg",400,594,"Summer evening",1,1,"Many visitors enjoy strolling around the pontoons on a summer evening. There are no security hang - ups. The walk around the headland to Port Navalo is well worth taking.","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129831]=new photo(129831,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004055.JPG",400,267,"Evening light",1,1,"The early evening light can be sublime in the Bay of Quiberon and the Gulf of Morbihan. This is a good example.","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129833]=new photo(129833,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004076.jpg",400,289,"Crouesty light",1,1,"A modern lighthouse and communication tower. Perhaps not everybody's romantic idea of a lighthouse but effective never-the-less. Reassuring for the many boaters coming in to this popular haven from Belle Isle, Houat and Hoedic, not to mention those who have just been round to Port Navalo in a sports boat for a gourmet meal!!","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129837]=new photo(129837,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty058 (2).jpg",600,403,"Fletcher",1,1,"Sorry, couldn't resist posting this boat which has given my family and me so much pleasure and which nowadays I sometimes go a couple of years without seeing. On this occasion I lent it to Matthew - 'please keep the speed down to 10 knots'. ","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129838]=new photo(129838,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty064.jpg",400,258,"Fletcher 2",1,1,"'Of course I will Dad'","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[129839]=new photo(129839,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty etc 2004003.jpg",400,267,"Port Crouesty - sunset",1,1,"This image looks unreal!","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[131552]=new photo(131552,"12010","","gallery","Suscinio012.jpg",400,256,"The fortress",1,1,"A modern view of this imposing fortress, much of which has been unrestored since the 13th century","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131553]=new photo(131553,"12010","","gallery","Sucinio m 003.jpg",400,306,"Ready for restoration",1,1,"The fortress is undergoing a lengthy programme of restoration","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131554]=new photo(131554,"12010","","gallery","Sucinio m 002.jpg",400,307,"The Moat",1,1,"This is a feature which has been well restored","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131555]=new photo(131555,"12010","","gallery","Sucinio m 006.jpg",400,307,"The Moat 2",1,1,"When restoration is complete this will be the main entrance to this imposing fortress. It is well worth a visit ","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131556]=new photo(131556,"12010","","gallery","Sucinio m 004.jpg",400,306,"Shade for a picnic",1,1,"The grounds are extensive and picnics are welcomed","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131557]=new photo(131557,"12010","","gallery","Sucinio m 005.jpg",400,308,"The twin towers ",1,1,"This photograph was taken before the roof was restored. Note the exposed chimney which emerges from the ( not visible) roof","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131559]=new photo(131559,"12010","","gallery","Suscinio001.JPG",400,600,"The twin towers 2",1,1,"Post restoration -  the roof has been restored. Note the pyramid of Breton slates completing the restoration of the two roofs. This remarkable fortress looks to be secured for several more centuries!","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[131560]=new photo(131560,"12010","","gallery","Suscinio006.jpg",400,603,"The moat 3",1,1,"This photograph is included to bring some scale to this imposing building and its moat.","","Robin Barker","Sarzeau","","","",18);backgrounds[133025]=new photo(133025,"11176","","gallery","IMG_0448 copy (2).jpg",600,448,"Summer glory",1,1,"Very pleasant and well known cottage situated at the junction of Freehold Street and Mill Lane. Inside there is a very deep well with attractive lighting.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[133161]=new photo(133161,"11147","","gallery","Image19 copy.jpg",400,267,"Elevation",1,1,"I needed steps to get this elevation - not often seen - but the winter sun was so attractive it made it worthwhile. This lovely church smiles in all seasons.An even higher elevation would be desirable but my steps are not reliable on the soft ground and a vantage point further from the church would save having to use a very wide angle lens which plays havoc with the relative sizes of the nave and the tower. Well worth a visit or an A3+ print!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[133601]=new photo(133601,"11152","","gallery","IMG_1273 copy.jpg",400,267,"Summer",1,1,"For those interested in the huge changes the appearance of the landscape undergoes between summer and winter this photograph and the following picture serve to illustrate, not the subtleness but the overwhelming change of the same scene.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[133604]=new photo(133604,"11152","","gallery","IMG_1915 copy.jpg",400,267,"Winter",1,1,"The afternoon sun minimises the winter bleakness but still there remains a huge contrast with the summer picture. But for the photographer which is the more satisfying?  Viewing both pictures while enjoying the benefit of the wood burning stove and a glass of Vergelegen Sauvignon Blanc does nothing to help in reaching a conclusion! (see South Africa winelands gallery).","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[135212]=new photo(135212,"11147","","gallery","IMG_1903 copy.jpg",400,267,"January afternoon",1,1,"I think this is, perhaps, the definitive angle from which to photograph this church. The slight camera elevation enables the symetry of a horizontal row of headstones to produce  a foreground which is in keeping with the classic architecture of the church. The perspective of the nave and the tower are acceptable and although inevitably distorted the eye automatically compensates.The light is exceptional for a January day in England and complements the Cotswold and Hornton stones. ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[135487]=new photo(135487,"11860","","gallery","IMG_1710 copy.jpg",400,284,"La Petit Ferme",1,1,"This is one of the best known and best loved restaurants in the Franschhoek Valley. It is a short drive  just above Franschhoek. Lovely setting and an environment to suit the whole family. The cuisine is superb and the cost modest. And just down the road is Haute Cabriere, the home of one of the best Pinot Noirs and lunches in the Cape. Oh! Lucky Franschhoekians,  you have the choice of two!!","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[135495]=new photo(135495,"11860","","gallery","IMG_1716 copy.jpg",400,300,"The view from La Petit Ferme",1,1,"Just mention the Franschhoek Valley to recent visitors or those who have lived there and it can bring tears to their eyes. Why? Because it is so beautiful and evokes memories of sublime climate, gorgeous vineyards, delectable food and wine and happy people! Go and see - just one overnight flight away and a half hour drive from Cape Town.","","Robin Barker","Franschhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[136026]=new photo(136026,"11353","","gallery","IMG_1675.JPG",400,267,"Restaurant - Buitenverwachting",1,1,'The cuisine here is simply superb and the views breathtaking.Run by "gentle fun loving folk" (Platter). If you enjoy fine wines and fine dining you will adore it here.',"","Robin Barker","Constantia","","","",18);backgrounds[137969]=new photo(137969,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1595 copy.jpg",400,267,"Early morning by the lake",1,1,"You have to be up early to enjoy this view which is steeped in anticipation. Not only the perfect Bartholomeus Klip breakfast but the day which will follow.","","Robin Barker","Western Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[137973]=new photo(137973,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1667 copy.jpg",400,300,"An early morning drive",1,1,"The air is bracing and the view spectacular. The small animals in the undergrowth are so profuse we shall not venture off road. ","","Robin Barker","Western Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[137976]=new photo(137976,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1692 copy.jpg",400,533,"The wood",1,1,"Eucalyptus trees are ubiquitous here and you either love or hate them. I love them like I love everything about this stupendous country. The trees are kept in check to avoid draining the water table but those that remain provide welcome shade for the animals (and visitors!) when temperatures rise above 40c.","","Robin Barker","Western Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[137983]=new photo(137983,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1703 copy.jpg",400,300,"Pre dinner drinks",1,1,"The hospitality here is amazing. There is nothing too much trouble for the small, happy team. A visit should be on everyone's wish list.","","Robin Barker","Western Cape","","","",18);backgrounds[139074]=new photo(139074,"11176","","gallery","IMG_0054 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Owl's Nest",1,1,"Recently re - thatched so this family home is looking at its best. Note the very finely crafted contouring around the windows. English thatching at its best. Compare this combed wheat with the reed thatch in the photographs of Vergelegen and others in the South Africa portfolio.Now with a new paint finish to complete the renovation.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[140299]=new photo(140299,"11176","","gallery","IMG_0525 (2).JPG",600,449,"Hayston Barn",1,1,"Very high quality and beautifully maintained barn conversion overlooking the old oak tree in Market Square.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[140304]=new photo(140304,"11176","","gallery","IMG_1182 copy.jpg",400,315,"Cottage in Market Square",1,1,"This lovely old end terrace cottage, number 19, overlooks the old oak in the square. In days gone by Market Square was the home of a fine array of village shops including grocers , butchers and bakers. The cottage may well have been one of them.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[140305]=new photo(140305,"11176","","gallery","IMG045 copy copy.jpg",600,437,"Farm house",1,1,"This fine old building enjoys a commanding position at the top of Market Square.This early morning photograph shows diffuse light on the Hornton stone","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[140896]=new photo(140896,"11147","","gallery","Untitled-Scanned-08 (2) copy.jpg",400,310,"Times remembered",1,1,"Maybe someone, somewhere, clearing out the attic will come across a picture like this. It would have been precarious with a nineteenth century plate camera on steps as rickety as mine. Shall we just pretend this is the real thing?","","Robin Barker Aged 123 years, nine months","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[143235]=new photo(143235,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2001026 copy.jpg",400,266,"Giraffes, mother  and daughter",1,1,"A welcome sight as you drive into Shamwari. The standard of living here, the quality of the staff and access to the animals are exemplary","","Robin Barker","Port Elizabeth","","","",18);backgrounds[143244]=new photo(143244,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2001030 copy.jpg",400,275,"A tree for breakfast",1,1,"Nobody knows for sure how many elephants there are here at Shamwari such is the size of the reserve but it is best to be wary of them. Once set on a direction nothing seems to divert them!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[143252]=new photo(143252,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2001038 copy.jpg",400,269,"Lion on the move",1,1,"It really is quite a shock the first time you come across a lion in the wild. The protection of the land rover is welcome and one doesn't need telling twice to sit still!","","Robin Barker","Shamwari","","","",18);backgrounds[143257]=new photo(143257,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2001039 copy.jpg",400,269,"Lion at watering hole",1,1,"The animals are deliberately not supported in any way here. If they become sick they either recover or they die. They are protected only from man. After refreshment here next stop is likely to be a tasty impala for lunch.","","Robin Barker","Shamwari","","","",18);backgrounds[143273]=new photo(143273,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2002005 copy.jpg",400,277,"Leopard",1,1,"This leopard relaxes up a tree at Ngala. Ngala is a huge private reserve in central Kruger just below the latitude where  anti malaria pills are essential. The leopard is on the lookout for dinner.","","Robin Barker","Kruger National Park","","","",18);backgrounds[143285]=new photo(143285,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2002021 copy.jpg",400,275,"Leopard with Impala",1,1,"To ensure exclusivity this young leopard has hauled his lunch up the tree. Just out of shot at the foot of the tree is a Hyena waiting for a leg to drop off. The leopard will go to great lengths to avoid sharing the animal!","","Robin Barker","Ngala","","","",18);backgrounds[143291]=new photo(143291,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2002027 copy.jpg",400,275,"Giraffe",1,1,"This giraffe was close to the entrance to Ngala. There is a drive of only 35 kilometres down this unmade road to the lodges and the welcome party with all manner of refreshments. Fabulous place!","","Robin Barker","Ngala","","","",18);backgrounds[143302]=new photo(143302,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2002034 copy.jpg",400,310,"Lion at Phinda",1,1,"Occasionaly new animals are introduced to this glorious reserve. This lion is a resident keeping watch on a new lion in a transfer pen. When the new animal is eventually released this fellow wants to make sure he is on hand to provide a very warm welcome!!","","Robin Barker","Phinda","","","",18);backgrounds[143316]=new photo(143316,"13235","","gallery","South Africa 2002040 copy.jpg",400,341,"Crocodile",1,1,"On the left of the photograph a basking crocodile on the bank of the river Hluhluwe near the reserve ","","Robin Barker","Phinda  Resource Reserve","","","",18);backgrounds[146050]=new photo(146050,"11151","","gallery","Image30 copy.jpg",400,258,"Dashwood bridge",1,1,"Only a farm traffic bridge but no less aesthetic for that. Photographed in mid - January but the late afternoon sun brings out the best in the natural stone. Ducks, moorhens and herons are prolific on the canal.","","Robin Barker","Northbrook","","","",18);backgrounds[146054]=new photo(146054,"11151","","gallery","Image31 copy.jpg",400,259,"Dashwood lock 1",1,1,"This lock really is in the middle of absolutely nowhere. Access is by boat, farm track or along the canal towpath. In the winter the overpopulation of the UK seems a little far fetched.","","Robin Barker","Northbrook","","","",18);backgrounds[146059]=new photo(146059,"11151","","gallery","Image32 copy.jpg",400,259,"Dashwood lock 2",1,1,"From here to the next lock up the valley at Upper Heyford is perhaps four miles. It is one of the most beautiful stretches on the canal. Half way between the locks full facilities are available at Lower Heyford.","","Robin Barker","Northbrook","","","",18);backgrounds[146403]=new photo(146403,"11152","","gallery","Image12 copy.jpg",400,263,"Cherwell river in winter",1,1,"The river management varies from poor to non-existent as these willows show. They have not been pollarded for years. This makes for beautiful 'olde worlde' pictures and undisturbed wildlife but reducs the recreational opportunities as even a small boat cannot navigate beyond fallen trees which straddle both banks.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[151585]=new photo(151585,"11147","","gallery","Image20 copy copy.jpg",400,270,"The Church - midwinter",1,1,"A bitterly cold January day but the late afternoon light brings out the best in the Cotswold and Hornton stone.The tower dates back to the twelfth century but the nave was reconstructed in 1865. What a pity that this wiew is dominated by overhead power cables which happily have been removed in Photoshop. Much better to put the cables underground! Also, taken from this angle and at a relatively low level the resultant photograph tends to 'lay back' the building with converging verticals. This has been reversed in Photoshop. I hope this has not impacted upon the integrity of the image! ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[162289]=new photo(162289,"11176","","gallery","CRW_1989 copy.jpg",400,391,"49, Freehold Street",1,1,"Lovingly restored with traditional materials both inside and out. The present owners are an example to us all in showing that sympathetic restoration truly enhances a property.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[179581]=new photo(179581,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0077 copy.jpg",400,265,"St Mary's Chuch Lower Heyford ready for jazz concert.  ",1,1,'A superb jazz concert, "Anything Goes" was held in this lovely old church in early March, 2006. The concert was recorded in front of a packed and highly enthusiastic audience. The accoustic and the environment were ideal. This photograph was taken on the morning of the concert. Am I alone in detecting an air of expectancy as the early morning sun glistens on the frost? Maybe the record producer will wish to use this picture in the CD booklet to complete the synthesis of all the elements of the occasion?!<br>\r\nIn response to a request I will occasionally give technical details about the photographs. This image was secured digitally with a Canon EOS 5D camera which has a full frame (the equivalent of 35mm) sensor. The lens was a Canon 24-70mm L series lens at 30mm. The camera was set at aperture priority at F 7.1 and a shutter speed of an 80th/sec.The image was secured in Camera Raw (no in camera compression)and post capture processing in Adobe Photoshop Elements 4 was limited to some lightening of the dark early morning shadows and a very small reduction of the highlights. The image was then converted to a low compression/high quality JPEG file of about 10 megabytes suitable for printing at A3+ and in this format the final picture is pin sharp. ',"","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[181621]=new photo(181621,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0081 copy.jpg",400,234,"Ducks ",1,1,"The canal regularly freezes over in the winter. What the ducks think of this is anyone's guess. Landing on the ice is quite a performance especially for those expecting water!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[182041]=new photo(182041,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0083 copy.jpg",400,267,"Winter",1,1,"The canal is frozen over and a light flurry of snow has settled. The only blemishes to an otherwise perfect covering are the skid marks of landing mallards, many of whom appear to be taken by surprise that the water has hardened overnight! ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[182043]=new photo(182043,"11151","","gallery","CRW_1981 copy (2).jpg",600,400,"Wintering narrowboats",1,1,"The saturated colours are drained from the landscape in mid - winter. Given some fleeting sunshine these boats will substitute for much that is missing. The colour, reflections upon the opaque ice and the patch of thawed water do, to my eye, add up to a nicely balanced and pleasing picture. The compression needed by my service provider robs the photograph of much of it's impact but an A3+ print will restore the original intention!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[182049]=new photo(182049,"11176","","gallery","Summer 2005 MF001 copy.jpg",400,308,"Church cottage",1,1,"This delightful cottage is tucked away opposite the church. With the garden in full summer bloom it seems even more remote. One of the beauties of this village is that there is always a surprise around every corner.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[182347]=new photo(182347,"11151","","gallery","Summer 2005 MF006 copy.jpg",400,308,"Home and boat",1,1,"A number of houses in the village of Lower Heyford have gardens which go down to the canal. Here is rather a pleasant one and a lovely reminder of the richness and beauty of mid - summer","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[201643]=new photo(201643,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0107_DxO_raw copy copy.jpg",400,267,"The South side",1,1,"The early Spring sun had just risen sufficiently to cast the porch window shadows on the wall and highlight the relief on the stonework. The Cotswold and Hornton stones are easy to identify in this light.<br>\r\nI am quite pleased with this picture from a technical standpoint. The image was captured from the boundary wall about 12 metres only from the church. I used a 17 - 40mm lens on my Canon 5D at its short end  and as is certain physically a huge amount of barrel distortion and some vignetting is apparent in the RAW image. There is some very clever software available (DxO) which mathematically calculates the inevitability of such distortions if provided with the details of the camera/lens combination and the distance from the subject.I applied this software to this image and then corrected the verticals and removed the overhead power cable in Photoshop. The final image looks stunning at A3+. I wonder if any enthusiast would try a shot of the church from this viewpoint as I would love to compare results using alternative solutions. The beauty of DxO is that it will work also with film images (I think) ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[209168]=new photo(209168,"11119","","gallery","CRW_1962 copy.jpg",400,267,"Upper Heyford, Church and Farm",1,1,"It was an exceptional winter's day which enabled this view from across the Oford Canal to be captured. I have regretted elsewhere how difficult it is the photograph the church and this perspective reveals some of the reasons for the difficulties. The farm enjoys spectacular views of the valley and Steeple Aston beyond.","","Robin Barker","Upper Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[211611]=new photo(211611,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0130 copy.jpg",400,267,"Bridge 211",1,1,"This bridge is for farm crossing only and is between Northbrook and Kirtlington. A fine example of brick bridgebuilding on the canal where every one is different.","","Robin Barker","Northbrook","","","",18);backgrounds[211618]=new photo(211618,"11152","","gallery","IMG_0141 copy.jpg",400,267,"Near Northbrook",1,1,"The river and canal are together again at this point.Very few walkers venture to this section of the canal towpath, hence the green track. The stillness and quietness are a real joy.","","Robin Barker","Northbrook","","","",18);backgrounds[222979]=new photo(222979,"11615","","gallery","DPP_0008 copy.jpg",400,267,"Anchorage",1,1,"A new footpath has just been completed giving access to a finger into the gulf. The views are breathtaking and just confirm what beautiful and unspoiled part of Brittany this is. Please don't tell your friends.","","Robin Barker","Pencastle","","","",18);backgrounds[256819]=new photo(256819,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0255_DxO_raw copy copy.jpg",600,400,"In Spring",1,1,"The church takes on a new lease of life in the spring. And how wonderful that my service provider will allow me to load a larger image.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[256924]=new photo(256924,"11152","","gallery","IMG_0248 copy.jpg",600,400,"In Spring",1,1,"The green lushness returns to the valley and so do the reed buntings and swallows. The river clarifies and all is well with the world!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[257043]=new photo(257043,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0260_DxO copy.jpg",600,400,"Afternoon sunlight",1,1,"A tranquil afternoon study on this famous old canal. My service provider now allows me to post a bigger image so with a new lease of life I will attack  all my galleries!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[269479]=new photo(269479,"11615","","gallery","IMG_0307 copy.jpg",600,400,"Kerners beach",1,1,"A rewarding walk around a finger into the Gulf from Pencastle. The houses around this bay are exceptional and the boat moorings both protected and convenient.","","Robin Barker","Kerners","","","",18);backgrounds[269482]=new photo(269482,"11615","","gallery","IMG_0289 copy.jpg",600,400,"Tranquil Bay",1,1,"When this potograph was taken (May 2006) a storm was raging in the open sea only a mile or two away. Such is the exceptional protection for boats and sailors in the Gulf","","Robin Barker","Pencastle","","","",18);backgrounds[269483]=new photo(269483,"11615","","gallery","IMG_0302 copy.jpg",600,400,"Kerners",1,1,"It is easy to miss Kerners bay from the road and the locals like to keep it that way. After all who wishes to share paradise?","","Robin Barker","Kerners","","","",18);backgrounds[269484]=new photo(269484,"11715","","gallery","IMG_2010.JPG",600,450,"Storms",1,1,"When an Atlantic storm blows in high tide lingers in the Gulf! The Quiberon Peninsula seems to offer little protection but these coditions are exceptional in this glorious part of Southern Brittany.","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[269485]=new photo(269485,"11715","","gallery","IMG_2028 copy.jpg",600,450,"Port Navalo beach",1,1,"A stark contrast to the previous images of this normally tranquil beach. A May storm has kept bathers, fishermen and sailors at home!","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[278952]=new photo(278952,"24752","","gallery","IMG_1391 copy.jpg",600,900,"Tara",1,1,"The bride","","Robin Barker","Trossachs, MacGregor, South Africa","","","",18);backgrounds[278966]=new photo(278966,"24752","","gallery","IMG_1397 copy.jpg",600,900,"Tara and Marian",1,1,"The bride and her Mum arrive","","Robin Barker","The Trossachs Chapel","","","",18);backgrounds[278980]=new photo(278980,"24752","","gallery","IMG_1395 copy.jpg",600,900,"Thea",1,1,"The lovely flower girl","","Robin Barker","Trossachs","","","",18);backgrounds[278987]=new photo(278987,"24752","","gallery","IMG_1440 copy.jpg",600,400,"Three lovely ladies",1,1,"Tara and sisters","","Robin Barker","MacGregor","","","",18);backgrounds[279005]=new photo(279005,"24752","","gallery","IMG_1494 copy.jpg",600,400,"New relations",1,1,"A fabulous day!","","Not Robin Barker","Mac Gregor","","","",18);backgrounds[291778]=new photo(291778,"11151","","gallery","DPP_00257 copy.jpg",600,448,"Ebony",1,1,"One of the most familiar sights on the canal. This immaculately maintained boat conceals a gleaming 1940's Russell Newbery DM3 engine which sounds on tickover to be achieving a full 10 revs per minute although Kevin tells me she actually ticks over at 150/200 rpm depending upon the co-operation of the governor.The 27 HP workhorse will actually achieve 1200 rpm! Captured here on medium format and Fuji Velvia 50","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[296192]=new photo(296192,"11151","","gallery","DPP_00256 copy.jpg",600,448,"Colourful bow",1,1,"The kaleidescope of colour is never ending on the busy parts of the canal. Here the bright red contrasts beautifully with the many hues of green and to me, although very simple, somehow leaves a very satisfying impression.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[296197]=new photo(296197,"11151","","gallery","DPP_00266 copy.jpg",600,448,"Poplars",1,1,"The late spring hues of green are to my mind the absolute zenith of the colours here. Contrast this view with the winter and autumnal shades. What a difference the seasons make and are we not fortunate to be able to enjoy such contrasts with little or no support for nature in performing such miracles?! ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[336441]=new photo(336441,"11151","","gallery","IMG021 copy.jpg",600,448,"Boatyard approach",1,1,"The light is usually at its best in the early morning on the canal. This photograph was captured on medium format film at around 7am in June. The ducks, hoping for breakfast were sadly disappointed.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[348969]=new photo(348969,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0361 copy.jpg",600,400,"Canalside home",1,1,"Can you imagine a better location for a narrowboat devotee? A perfect merger of home and mooring in the friendly village of Lower Heyford. The lady who lives here has a little book of boat licence numbers (or not as the case may be!)","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[352305]=new photo(352305,"11151","","gallery","IMG047 copy.jpg",600,448,"Early morning",1,1,"The light is quite sublime at 6am on a midsummer morning. What a pity so few are around to appreciate it!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[387221]=new photo(387221,"11715","","gallery","IMG067 copy.jpg",600,448,"Summer view",1,1,"I can't get enough of this view which the observant will have noticed I have squeezed into a number of galleries. The polarising filter on my medium format film camera gives the water a pleasing tranparency.","","Robin Barker","Port Navalo","","","",18);backgrounds[387224]=new photo(387224,"11615","","gallery","IMG071 copy.jpg",600,448,"The covetable cottage Summer 2006",1,1,"As lovely as ever even with the tide receding in the Gulf. Maybe one day..........","","Robin Barker","Pencastle","","","",18);backgrounds[387261]=new photo(387261,"11712","","gallery","IMG_2102 copy.jpg",600,450,"Entrance",1,1,"The port and starboard lights mark the entrance to the marina and its extensive facilities. It is accessible at all states of the tide. Here the early morning light makes even the concrete piers look attractive and the fishing boat gives a welcome perspective.","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[387265]=new photo(387265,"11712","","gallery","IMG_2106 copy.jpg",600,450,"Early morning",1,1,"The early morning light upon the administrative centre and just some of the boats sets the scene for another wonderful day in prospect here in Southern Brittany.","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[448524]=new photo(448524,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0542 (2).JPG",600,400,"Colourful narrowboat",1,1,"One of the joys of walking the canal is the never ending profile of the boats and the inventiveness in terms of colour of the boat owners. In the afternoon sun this boat looks absolutely stunning ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[468802]=new photo(468802,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0565_DxO_raw copy.jpg",600,400,"Early mid - September morning",1,1,"At this time of the year the sun begins to cast dark and long shadows in the churchyard. I have resisted the temptation to lighten the forground shadow here as I think the contrast with the brightly lit church adds to drama of the moment. Only two small gravestones have been sacrificed after all. There should be more weddings here!","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[469622]=new photo(469622,"11715","","gallery","IMG_0452 copy.jpg",600,400,"Early morning",1,1,"The entrance to the Gulf, one of my favourite views in the entire world, looks at its very best in the early morning. It is peaceful and perfect. Please don't tell anyone you've seen it here.","","Robin Barker","Billcroix","","","",18);backgrounds[480182]=new photo(480182,"11712","","gallery","Crouesty063 (2).jpg",600,359,"Tina - my favourite Australian",1,1,'A holiday in the 90\'s remembered.All Tina ever remembers saying to Matthew is "slown down." He never did and never does! The boat still looks as good today as it did then. Would just like more use!',"","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[488210]=new photo(488210,"11307","","gallery","IMG_1672 (2).JPG",600,449,"The eucalyptus tree",1,1,"This remarkable tree stands proud in the lake on this beautiful estate. It is the home of countless weavers and ibis.","","Robin Barker","Western Cape, South Africa","","","",18);backgrounds[513680]=new photo(513680,"39822","","gallery","IMG_0580 copy copy (2).jpg",600,858,"The glorious Chancel",1,1,"The glory of the chancel is described in the gallery introduction. It is simply magnificent.","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[513686]=new photo(513686,"39822","","gallery","IMG_0582 copy (2).jpg",600,450,"The organ loft",1,1,'Played by Charlotte Green, the heroine in "Aynho Junction", in 1940',"","Robin Barker","Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[513733]=new photo(513733,"39822","","gallery","IMG_0593 copy (3).jpg",600,381,"The Nave",1,1,"For a parish church the sheer size of the nave is breathtaking. It has a wonderful lived in feeling too!","","Robin Barker","Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[520766]=new photo(520766,"11147","","gallery","IMG119 (2).jpg",600,449,"Autumn",1,1,"The autumn seems to come round very quickly but never mind. This lovely little church responds so well to the changing seasons. Here she is captured on film designed for portraiture. What better compliment can be paid and how could she possibly look any better?","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[533744]=new photo(533744,"39822","","gallery","IMG_0581 copy copy (2).jpg",600,917,"The Great East Window",1,1,"Charlotte gazed at this window from the Green family pew in 1940. (Please see Gallery introduction)","","Robin Barker","Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[603495]=new photo(603495,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0712_DxO_raw (2).jpg",600,400,"November light",1,1,"It's November again and every day brings with it different light. This is early morning and the low sun casts a blue shadow on the frost. Canon EOS 5D 17-40mm L series lens","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[628800]=new photo(628800,"11119","","gallery","IMG312 copy.jpg",600,450,"Dull November",1,1,"The Cherwell Valley is in flood in November 2006. This early morning picture was captured on Kodak Portrait film (NC 400) by a 40mm Bronica PE lens. It is good to photograph in such dismal weather as the contrast with a sunny day seems so much the greater.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[640993]=new photo(640993,"11119","","gallery","IMG337 (3).jpg",600,449,"Floods - Sunny November",1,1,"A day or two after this picture of the flood plain was taken, thousands of herring gulls occupied the site. ","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[813692]=new photo(813692,"63073","","gallery","IMG_0740 copy (2).jpg",600,392,"The Viceregal Lodge.",1,1,"Designed by the architect Henry Irwin and constructed in 1902 and said to be inspired by Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire. Irwin's contemporaries were very rude about this building. I rather like it!","","Robin Barker","Shimla, Punjab, India","","","",18);backgrounds[813736]=new photo(813736,"63073","","gallery","IMG_0749 (2).JPG",600,400,"Yarrows",1,1,"Sir Herbert Baker's contribution to the development of this Hill Station. The house is now occupied by the The Institute of Auditors and it was a surprise to the Director that the architect was none other than he that built the great parliament buildings in Delhi ","","","Shimla, India","","","",18);backgrounds[814625]=new photo(814625,"63073","","gallery","IMG_0735 (2).JPG",600,400,"The Oberoi Cecil",1,1,"What a lovely place to stay this is! Spectacular views in every direction and service quality that would be very difficult to improve upon.","","Robin Barker","Shimla","","","",18);backgrounds[818797]=new photo(818797,"63466","","gallery","IMG_2407 copy.jpg",600,450,"A tiger in the wild",1,1,"I cannot convey in mere words the thrill of a first sighting of a Bengall tiger in its natural habitat.It took five drives into the reserve to capture this image.","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore, India","","","",18);backgrounds[818826]=new photo(818826,"63466","","gallery","IMG_2434 (2).JPG",600,449,"Lakeside",1,1,"This beautiful reserve offers many opportunities for the landscape photographer. If there are no tigers about(!) then there are hundreds of species of birds and animals","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore tiger reserve","","","",18);backgrounds[819582]=new photo(819582,"63073","","gallery","IMG_2304 (2).JPG",600,449,"The 'Toy' train",1,1,"It takes  over five hours from Kalko to Shimla on this train. Here it has to slow down for a cow!","","Robin Barker","Shimla","","","",18);backgrounds[819668]=new photo(819668,"63569","","gallery","IMG_2264 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Secretariat",1,1,"Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, this building houses the functions that cannot be squeezed into the Parliament Building","","Robin Barker","New Delhi","","","",18);backgrounds[819672]=new photo(819672,"63569","","gallery","IMG_2271 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Secretariat",1,1,"Photographers are waived away. A good idea is to be seen taking something else!","","Robin Barker","New Delhi","","","",18);backgrounds[819675]=new photo(819675,"63569","","gallery","IMG_2274 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Regal Palace",1,1,"A Lutyens building.","","Robin Barker","New Delhi","","","",18);backgrounds[819682]=new photo(819682,"63569","","gallery","IMG_2281 copy (2).jpg",600,449,"The Gate of India",1,1,"Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens it is huge. Viewing the Government buildings demonstrates the vast open spaces of this city.","","Robin Barker","New Delhi","","","",18);backgrounds[821315]=new photo(821315,"63466","","gallery","IMG_0772 (2).JPG",600,400,"The Fort",1,1,"High above the reserve is this impressive fort.We failed to discover how to scale its walls.","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore tiger reserve","","","",18);backgrounds[821322]=new photo(821322,"63466","","gallery","IMG_0778 (2).JPG",600,400,"A Ranthambore monkey",1,1,"These monkeys are friendly and better looking than the urban brown monkey which is constantly on the lookout for food. They are also too smart for the tigers.","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore tiger reserve","","","",18);backgrounds[821333]=new photo(821333,"63466","","gallery","IMG_0783 (2).JPG",600,400,"Dear",1,1,"When you come across one of these looking relaxed you can be sure there is no tiger in the vicinity.","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore","","","",18);backgrounds[821336]=new photo(821336,"63466","","gallery","IMG_0807 (2).JPG",600,400,"Crocodile",1,1,"It is easy to overlook these animals, there being so much to see here.","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore","","","",18);backgrounds[821342]=new photo(821342,"63466","","gallery","IMG_2381 (2).jpg",600,402,"An alternative aspect",1,1,"The light in this reserve is a real traet for the landscape photographer","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore","","","",18);backgrounds[821348]=new photo(821348,"63466","","gallery","IMG_2416 (2).JPG",600,449,"More beautiful light.",1,1,"A special permit is required if you wish to enter the reserve on foot. How rewarding it would be!","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore","","","",18);backgrounds[821408]=new photo(821408,"63466","","gallery","IMG_2426 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Maharaja's retreat",1,1,"There is everything in this remarkable reserve.Tigers have been sighted looking for crocodiles in the lake.A smart move is to pounce when the crocodile has just caught a fish. Two for the price of one!","","Robin Barker","Ranthambore","","","",18);backgrounds[830103]=new photo(830103,"11152","","gallery","IMG415 (2).jpg",600,449,"Cherwell floods",1,1,"The flooded plain has persisted for much of the winter 2006/7. This image was captured in much lamented Velvia 50","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[834367]=new photo(834367,"11152","","gallery","IMG409 (2).jpg",600,449,"Rousham Park",1,1,"Once the river bursts its bank it forms unpredictable channels. This is a typical example.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[844955]=new photo(844955,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2442 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Amber Fort",1,1,"Breathtaking views and much to see. An elephant ride to the palace is a must do","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[844963]=new photo(844963,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2448 copy (2).jpg",600,429,"The Fort Gardens",1,1,"These gardens are beautifully kept and there are lovely views of Jaipur and the Rajistan plain","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[844970]=new photo(844970,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2473 copy (2).jpg",600,443,"The Rambagh Palace Hotel",1,1,"This is the place to stay. ","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[844977]=new photo(844977,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2474 copy (2).jpg",600,798,"An Indian Beauty",1,1,"This is a portrait of the lady who used to own the Rambagh Palace Hotel. In her late eighties now she still visits. I will post her name when I establish it. Any information about her would be most welcome.<br>\r\n<br>\r\nThe lady is Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur. Sadly she has just died (29th July 2009) aged 90. Her home was the Rambagh Palace before it became a hotel in 1956. Her obituary, where she is pictured entertaining The Queen and Prince Phillip appeared in The Times on 31st July. American Vogue voted her among the ten most beautiful women in the world. The painting is by Pietro Annigoni","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[844982]=new photo(844982,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2477 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Garden",1,1,"The Rambagh Palace Hotel garden and the fort beyond.","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[844988]=new photo(844988,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2486 copy (2).jpg",600,451,"The Samode Havelli",1,1,"This hotel offers exellent service,rooms and restaurant and is right in the centre of town.","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[856413]=new photo(856413,"66014","","gallery","DSCF0686 (2)1.JPG",600,449,"Darjeeling",1,1,"The town is across the valley. The Himalayan peaks are 200 kilometres away!","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856417]=new photo(856417,"66014","","gallery","DSCF0689 copy (2).jpg",600,435,"Ghum monastery",1,1,"This Buhddist monastery is typical of the genre. How colourfull!","","Robin Barker","Near Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856420]=new photo(856420,"66014","","gallery","DSCF0694 (2).JPG",600,449,"The local orchestra",1,1,"These young boys play traditional Himalayan music until the money overflows. They are real fun!","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856425]=new photo(856425,"66014","","gallery","IMG_0828 (2).JPG",600,400,"The Glenburn Tea Estate",1,1,"For a landscape photographer the quality of the light nearly always exceeds expectations","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856432]=new photo(856432,"66014","","gallery","IMG_0838 copy (2).jpg",600,400,"The Glenburn lodge",1,1,"It would be impossible to speak too highly of the quality of the accommodation here. It is sumptuous.","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856436]=new photo(856436,"66014","","gallery","IMG_2533 (2).JPG",600,449,"The Tea Estate",1,1,"Glenburn produces some of India's highest quality tea. Try it!","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856449]=new photo(856449,"66014","","gallery","IMG_2535 (2).JPG",600,449,"The river",1,1,"Right at the foot of the Glenburn Tea estate the river flows. Across the river it is Sikkim where visitors require a visa. With long legs you might be able to make it across on the stones. There does not appear to be any border guards!","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[856457]=new photo(856457,"66014","","gallery","IMG_2538 (2).JPG",600,449,"Glenburn Lodge interior",1,1,"I couldn't resist showing this picture as I had said how sumptuous the accommodation is here.","","Robin Barker","Darjeeling","","","",18);backgrounds[862047]=new photo(862047,"65144","","gallery","IMG_2443 (2).JPG",600,449,"Graham & Yvonne",1,1,"The elephant's favourite couple","","Robin Barker","Jaipur","","","",18);backgrounds[877839]=new photo(877839,"11151","","gallery","IMG417 (2).jpg",600,449,"Ready for the new season",1,1,"Highly saturated colours - pleasing for the landscape photographer","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[891557]=new photo(891557,"63073","","gallery","IMG_0762 copy (2).jpg",600,397,"The church",1,1,"There is something unreal about this picture. Does it look like the church in a hill station in the Punjab or is it straight from a Raj picture book? It snows here!","","Robin Barker","Shimla","","","",18);backgrounds[899556]=new photo(899556,"68869","","gallery","IMG_2496 copy (2).jpg",600,429,"The Neemrana Palace Hotel.",1,1,"Well worth a visit this hotel is cut into the cliff face. See gallery heading for a brief descrition of its undoubted charm","","Robin Barker","Neemrana Rajistan","","","",18);backgrounds[899753]=new photo(899753,"68869","","gallery","IMG_2501 copy (2).jpg",600,449,"The Step well",1,1,"Can you believe that this structure was necessary to facilitate the drawing of water from the well?","","Robin Barker","Neemrana","","","",18);backgrounds[899762]=new photo(899762,"68869","","gallery","IMG_2504 copy (2).jpg",600,449,"The step well orchestra",1,1,"I hope they count visitors as they go down and count them as they come back up!","","Robin Barker","Neemrana","","","",18);backgrounds[899764]=new photo(899764,"68869","","gallery","IMG_2511 (2).JPG",600,449,"Sunset",1,1,"Every night it is the same. From Neemrana Palace hotel the sun goeth down.","","Robin Barker","Neemrana","","","",18);backgrounds[900447]=new photo(900447,"68940","","gallery","IMG_0841 (2).JPG",600,400,"The River",1,1,"The view from the bridge a little to the South of Kalimpong on the road to Bagdogra","","Robin Barker","Kalimpong","","","",18);backgrounds[900455]=new photo(900455,"68940","","gallery","IMG_0842 copy (2).jpg",600,444,"The Bridge",1,1,"Built to commemorate the coronation of King George Sixth","","Robin Barker","Kalimpong","","","",18);backgrounds[900463]=new photo(900463,"68940","","gallery","IMG_2551 (2).JPG",600,449,"Cactus",1,1,"These plants are a speciality in Kalimpong","","Robin Barker","Kalimpong","","","",18);backgrounds[900471]=new photo(900471,"68940","","gallery","IMG_2555 (2).JPG",600,449,"Cactus (2)",1,1,"It can snow here so the plants thrive in heated glass houses during the winter months.","","Robin Barker","Kalimpong","","","",18);backgrounds[900480]=new photo(900480,"68940","","gallery","IMG_2557 (2).JPG",600,449,"A market stall",1,1,"Everything for a splendid curry here!","","Robin Barker","Kalimpong","","","",18);backgrounds[915532]=new photo(915532,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0950_DxO_raw (2).jpg",600,400,"Early Spring morning",1,1,"Another winter survived. How well this lovely old church looks at just after seven on an early Spring, 2007, morning.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[1269348]=new photo(1269348,"11715","","gallery","IMG586 (2).jpg",600,401,"My view again",1,1,"A 2007 view. Just as lovely as ever and in Velvia the colours are striking.","","Robin Barker","Billcroix","","","",18);backgrounds[1337744]=new photo(1337744,"11615","","gallery","IMG582 (2).jpg",600,401,"Kerners Bay",1,1,"This is a magical bay and even in the height of the summer season, deserted. Shh, don't tell! ","","Robin Barker","Pencastle","","","",18);backgrounds[1337745]=new photo(1337745,"11615","","gallery","IMG_2838 (2).JPG",600,449,"The walk",1,1,"There are footpaths around much of the perimeter of the Gulf and on many of the 25 inhabited islands.There is nowhere in the world quite like this.","","Robin Barker","Pencastle","","","",18);backgrounds[1341145]=new photo(1341145,"11147","","gallery","IMG_0341_pt (2).JPG",600,449,"Velvia",1,1,"This picture was taken with the amazing little Canon G7 digital camera. It was set to Positive Film and this seting produces saturated colours which mimic Fuji Velvia.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[1354837]=new photo(1354837,"11712","","gallery","IMG577 (2).jpg",600,382,"The port in 2007.",1,1,"At first light the hues are magical. Velvia film adds to the glorious colours.","","Robin Barker","Port Crouesty","","","",18);backgrounds[1381014]=new photo(1381014,"39822","","gallery","IMG_1229_pt copy (2).jpg",600,408,"The dominant chancel",1,1,"I have written at length about the church in the introduction to this gallery. It is simply glorious. But it is really difficult to photograph as the land falls away around the east, south and west sides leaving the photographer stranded. There is a high wall around the Old Vicarage to the south-east. I wonder if I shall be able to persuade the owner to let me scale the wall to get a much better picture!","","Robin Barker","West Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[1381034]=new photo(1381034,"39822","","gallery","IMG_1230_pt copy (2).jpg",600,442,"The South Transept",1,1,"Can you wonder why Charlotte, the heroine in the new wartime novel, Aynho Junction, so loved this church? You can just see in this photograph the extention to the height of the transept by the introduction of Hornton stone in the upper wall. I would love to know when this work was done.","","Robin Barker","West Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[1504171]=new photo(1504171,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1577_pt_DxO copy (2).jpg",600,407,"Long view, early morning",1,1,"Difficult to photograph owing to the downward slope to the road on the east and south sides and a wide angle lens is needed to do the church justice. And then the ensuing distortions need to be corrected.But still the church looks lovely in the diffuse early morning light.  ","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1504175]=new photo(1504175,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1584_DxO copy (2).jpg",600,399,"The extention to the chancel. 15th century?",1,1,"This grand old church, dating back to the 12th century, is in and idyllic setting and the churchyard is beautifully maintained.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston, Oxon","","","",18);backgrounds[1504179]=new photo(1504179,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1570 copy_pt (2).jpg",600,400,"A little closer",1,1,"How different this church is to St Mary's Lower Heyford, which can be seen from the tower, just down the Cherwell Valley.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1504215]=new photo(1504215,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1574 copy_pt (2).jpg",600,390,"The Chancel",1,1,"A slightly different angle but the subject is no less attractive. Perhaps the plastic water butts are a little less noticeable from this viewpoint!","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1504220]=new photo(1504220,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1575 copy_pt (2).jpg",600,953,"The Tower",1,1,"The true height of the tower cannot be appreciated from any angle that the church as a whole can be satisfactorily photographed from. Here it is in splendid isolation. ","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston, Oxfordshire","","","",18);backgrounds[1524541]=new photo(1524541,"11119","","gallery","12 (2).jpg",600,390,"The Old Oak",1,1,"This much loved Old Oak tree in Rousham Park was photographed being aged in 2004. It turned out to be more than 1000 years old, one of the oldest in the country. Sadly it has now collapsed, being unable to withstand a number of exceptionally high winds. We shall miss him. This picture looks stunning at A3+ and anyone is more than welcome in return for a small donation to Lower Heyford or Rousham church.","","Robin Barker","Rousham","","","",18);backgrounds[1543531]=new photo(1543531,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1569 copy (2).jpg",600,400,"An Autumn view",1,1,"It may be early November but I can't imagine this church looking better. The early morning sun from over the Cherwell Valley shows her at her best.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1543544]=new photo(1543544,"103286","","gallery","IMG_1585_DxO copy (2).jpg",600,399,"Traditional view",1,1,"The early morning light softens the Cotswold and Hornton stone. I would love to hear from any photographer who has solved the difficulty of photographing this church, given the constraints of the surrounding topography.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1615600]=new photo(1615600,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0754 (2).JPG",600,449,"The firework night bonfire. For Debs.",1,1,"Bonfire night is always an event in Lower Heyford.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[1615621]=new photo(1615621,"11151","","gallery","IMG_0758 (2).JPG",600,449,"Fireworks. For Debs.",1,1,"Pressing a digital shutter and getting it to fire as the firework explodes is fun. I like the reflections in the canal.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[1624323]=new photo(1624323,"103286","","gallery","IMG694 copy (2).jpg",600,430,"Autumn Frost",1,1,"The light was particularly good on this November morning","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1624355]=new photo(1624355,"103286","","gallery","IMG697 copy (2).jpg",600,440,"November frost",1,1,"The multitude of colours within the stonework are pronounced when the light is so good.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[1768932]=new photo(1768932,"11119","","gallery","IMG_0009 (2).JPG",600,450,"Swans enjoying the floods",1,1,"The wildlife appreciate the flooded valley even if walkers and hikers take a dim view of the ever increasing frequency of impassable footpaths.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[1888293]=new photo(1888293,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0268 (2).JPG",600,450,"Sossusvlei",1,1,"It is impossible to describe in words the vastness of the dunes here in the Namib Desert.Many photographers and artists have tried and failed! Suffice to say it is a stupendous and humbling experience to travel here at sunrise and witness this awe inspiring vista.It touches the soul.","","Robin Barker","Sossusvlei","","","",18);backgrounds[1888295]=new photo(1888295,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0267 (2).JPG",600,450,"Sossusvlei - a broader perspective",1,1,"People who know this area know each dune by a number. I know only one and it is not the one pictured here.","","Robin Barker","Sossuslvei","","","",18);backgrounds[1888304]=new photo(1888304,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0253 (2).JPG",600,450,"Dune 45",1,1,"This is the famous Dune 45. It is waiting for the sunrise and I'm pleased to have captured it in the half-light of early morning. The temperature is a modest 22c and later in the morning it could reach 40c","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[1888336]=new photo(1888336,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0239 (2).JPG",600,450,"The Namib Desert",1,1,"The weather changes rapidly here in the desert. The sun is shining on one peak while the other is enjoying a shower.A few more showers and the desert floor will burst with flowers.","","Robin Barker","Namib Desert","","","",18);backgrounds[1888408]=new photo(1888408,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0300 (2).JPG",600,450,"A lodge at Goche Ganas",1,1,"This is a wonderful place to stay,and only 25 kilometres south of the capital Windhoek. The lodges overlook a valley of bush and scrub, inhabited by Rhino,Zebra and a variety of antelope. There are, too, birds in profusion, including Bul Bul, Laughing doves, Striped breasted swallows and Turaco.","","Robin Barker","Goche Ganas","","","",18);backgrounds[1888538]=new photo(1888538,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0376 (2).JPG",600,450,"The Terrace",1,1,"Breakfast here in the Hotel Heinitzberg, overlooking the City is a real joy","","Robin Barker","Windhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[1888544]=new photo(1888544,"126786","","gallery","IMG_1118 (2).JPG",600,450,"Lizard",1,1,"There are at least four varieties of multicoloured lizards in the garden of the Hotel Heinitzberg","","Robin Barker","Hotel Heinitzberg","","","",18);backgrounds[1888567]=new photo(1888567,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0380 (2).JPG",600,450,"Hotel Heinitzberg",1,1,"One of the most pleasant places to stay. The hotel is a castle dating back to the 18th century.The people here are lovely and the service excellent.","","Robin Barker","Windhoek","","","",18);backgrounds[1890919]=new photo(1890919,"126786","","gallery","IMG_1090 (2).JPG",600,449,"Wabi",1,1,"Wabi is a game lodge nestling at the foot of the Waterberg Plateau, which is itself a huge, elevated game reserve. Here the Lechwe herd gather at the watering hole in the early evening.","","Robin Barker","Waterberg","","","",18);backgrounds[1890922]=new photo(1890922,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0320 (2).JPG",600,444,"Water Buffalo",1,1,"There are wide open spaces here for the animals to graze","","Robin Barker","Wabi","","","",18);backgrounds[1890923]=new photo(1890923,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0327 (2).JPG",600,450,"The pool at Wabi",1,1,"Wabi is a very comfortable place to stay. If you are as fortunate as we were you will greeted by two lovely young ladies, Beatrice and Jackie, who took care of our every need throughout our visit","","Robin Barker","Wabi","","","",18);backgrounds[1890924]=new photo(1890924,"126786","","gallery","IMG_1085 (2).JPG",600,799,"Cactus",1,1,"The garden here is a real joy, every perspective varies, and a never ending array of shrubs and flowers.","","Robin Barker","Wabi","","","",18);backgrounds[1890948]=new photo(1890948,"126786","","gallery","IMG_1101 (2).JPG",600,450,"The garden at Wabi",1,1,"The farm is owned by and has been developed by Christine and Mark Egger over many years. They are justly proud of what they have achieved, providing a life enhancing experience for visitors, a marvellous haven for indigenous and re-introduced animals, employment for many local workers and all with an eye on preserving and caring for the environment.The Namibian government has a programme of land redistibution, which at present may be described as gentle but there are signs that the programme is getting more severe with one or two other local farms under threat. The confiscation of all or even part of this farm would be a travesty of natural justice given the investment which has taken place for the benefit of so wide a community.<br>\r\n<br>\r\nMark and Christine feel they are living in a period of great uncertaincy unable to feel confident about the future, which all their efforts have been designed to secure. The day that Wabi is confiscated we should give up on Africa! ","","Robin Barker","Wabi","","","",18);backgrounds[2430871]=new photo(2430871,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1231 copy (3).jpg",600,407,"St Mary the Virgin, Adderbury",1,1,'As Pevsner says, "the finest parish church in Oxfordshire" It is Charlotte\'s church.',"","Robin Barker","West Adderbury","","","",18);backgrounds[2431005]=new photo(2431005,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0117 copy  (2).jpg",600,387,"St Mary's Upper Heyford",1,1,"The tower is the original but the rest of the church was rebuilt in 1865 in the Perpendicular style.","","Robin Barker","Upper Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[2431056]=new photo(2431056,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0557 copy.jpg",600,457,"The Church of All Saints, Middleton Stoney",1,1,"Some fine details of the Norman church have survived the Victorian restoration","","Robin Barker","Middleton Stoney","","","",18);backgrounds[2431069]=new photo(2431069,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0625 copy.jpg",600,450,"Rousham, The Church of St Leonard and St James",1,1,"Dates back to the 12th century but chancel and south side substantially rebuilt in the 14th century.","","Robin Barker","Rousham","","","",18);backgrounds[2431091]=new photo(2431091,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0711_DxO_raw.jpg",600,400,"St Mary's Lower Heyford",1,1,"There has been a church here since 11th century but this building was started in the 13th century and substantially rebuilt in the 14th century.","","Robin Barker","Lower Heyford","","","",18);backgrounds[2431099]=new photo(2431099,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1281 copy.jpg",600,443,"Steeple Barton, The Church of St Mary",1,1,"A Norman church restored in 1850","","Robin Barker","Steeple Barton","","","",18);backgrounds[2431128]=new photo(2431128,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1383 copy.jpg",600,450,"St Mary's North Aston",1,1,"A 15th century church dominated by North Aston Hall","","Robin Barker","North Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[2431169]=new photo(2431169,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1436 copy.jpg",600,431,"Fritwell, The Church of St Olave",1,1,"The north and south doorways survive from the Norman church substantially rebuilt in 1865","","Robin Barker","Fritwell","","","",18);backgrounds[2431242]=new photo(2431242,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1443 copy (2).jpg",600,450,"St Michael's Aynho",1,1,"Just in Northamptonshire in the Peterborough diocese.Norman tower survives from the original.","","Robin Barker","Aynho","","","",18);backgrounds[2431289]=new photo(2431289,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0068_pt copy (2).jpg",600,449,"St Peter and St Paul, Steeple Aston",1,1,"13th century church but remodelled in both 14th and 15th centuries.","","Robin Barker","Steeple Aston","","","",18);backgrounds[2431294]=new photo(2431294,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1705.jpg",600,390,"Souldern, St Mary the Virgin",1,1,"12th Century church but only north wall and north doorway of the original remain. Rebuilt in 1906 using original materials.","","Robin Barker","Souldern","","","",18);backgrounds[2431308]=new photo(2431308,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1721 copy.jpg",600,794,"King's Sutton. St Peter and St Paul",1,1,"Thought to have Anglo Saxon origins but architecture indicative of 12th century.","","Robin Barker","King's Sutton","","","",18);backgrounds[2510062]=new photo(2510062,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0619 copy (2).jpg",600,800,"Ardley with Fewcott, St Mary's",1,1,"The church nave dates back to the 13th or 14th century. The tower is massive and unusually for North Oxfordshire, has a saddleback roof.","","Robin Barker","Ardley","","","",18);backgrounds[2510111]=new photo(2510111,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0673 copy (2).jpg",600,449,"Bletchingdon, St Giles",1,1,"Lovely little church with 13th century chancel. Nave and West tower heavily restored in 1878.","","Robin Barker","Bletchingdon","","","",18);backgrounds[2510118]=new photo(2510118,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1733 copy (2).jpg",600,956,"Bloxham, St Mary's",1,1,"One of the finest parish churches in the country. Has its origin in the 12th century but the majestic tower and spire 14th century. Under royal patronage until 1547.","","Robin Barker","Bloxham","","","",18);backgrounds[2510142]=new photo(2510142,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1789 copy (2).jpg",600,398,"Duns Tew, St Mary Magdalene",1,1,"Perpendicular style tower and West porch 17th century but remaider rebuilt in 1862. Beautifully proportioned.","","Robin Barker","Duns Tew","","","",18);backgrounds[2510144]=new photo(2510144,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1777 copy (2).jpg",600,813,"Kirtlington, St Mary the Virgin",1,1,"East and West arches of central tower and vestry doorway remain from early 12th century.","","Robin Barker","Kirtlington","","","",18);backgrounds[2510146]=new photo(2510146,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1742 copy (2).jpg",600,505,"Milton, St Mary's",1,1,"Built in 1856 by William Butterfield. Local stone with steeply pitched red tile roofs.","","Robin Barker","Milton, Oxon","","","",18);backgrounds[2510150]=new photo(2510150,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1759 copy (2).jpg",600,379,"Tackley, St Nicholas's",1,1,"Believed started in 11th century, this cruciform hillside church has an elevated chancel to the level of the nave. Major restoration 15th century.","","Robin Barker","Tackley, Oxon","","","",18);backgrounds[2517096]=new photo(2517096,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1797 copy (2).jpg",600,412,"Bodicote, St John the Baptist",1,1,"The chancel arch remains from the 13th century in this lovely family church which was almost entirely rebuilt in 1844","","Robin Barker","Bodicote, Oxon","","","",18);backgrounds[2552905]=new photo(2552905,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1829 copy (2).jpg",600,400,"Hampton Gay, St Giles",1,1,"Remotely located, the village having almost entirely disappeared. The church had its origins in the 17th century but was completely rebuit 1767/72 and then gothicized in 1860","","Robin Barker","Hampton Gay","","","",18);backgrounds[2552907]=new photo(2552907,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1841 copy (2).jpg",600,391,"Hampton Poyle, St Mary's",1,1,"Victorian restorations 1841 and 1860's but 13th century chancel east window survives.Exposed bell tower unique in Cherwell Valley.","","Robin Barker","Hampton Poyle","","","",18);backgrounds[2552916]=new photo(2552916,"157006","","gallery","IMG_0686 (2).JPG",600,449,"Shipton on Cherwell, The Holy Cross",1,1,"Rebuilt in 1831 by William Turner in early 14th century style.East window and wall threatened by subsidence owing to proximity to canal.","","Robin Barker","Shipton on Cherwell","","","",18);backgrounds[2552931]=new photo(2552931,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1823 copy (2).jpg",600,899,"Islip, St Nicholas's",1,1,"12th century origins of present church but original 11th century grant to Westminster Abbey by Edward the Confessor to mark the village of his birth.Chancel rebuilt 1680 and church gothicised in 1861","","Robin Barker","Islip","","","",18);backgrounds[2555805]=new photo(2555805,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1856 copy (2).jpg",600,412,"Kidlington, St Mary the Virgin",1,1,"Originally cruciform 13th century with central tower and no aisles. North and West walls of the nave, part of the transepts and the lower stage of the tower survive from this period. Medieval restoration including magnificent spire.","","Robin Barker","Kidlington","","","",18);backgrounds[2555807]=new photo(2555807,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1490 copy (2).jpg",600,449,"Somerton, St James's",1,1,"Some 13th century evidence but mainly 14th century with striking 15th century battlements. Refurbished in 1865 with chancel arch dating from this time.","","Robin Barker","Somerton","","","",18);backgrounds[2619446]=new photo(2619446,"157006","","gallery","IMG_1861 copy (2).jpg",600,397,"Deddington, St Peter and St Paul",1,1,"Lovely 13th century family church with 17th century tower following collapse of medieval tower and spire in 1634.","","Robin Barker","Deddington","","","",18);backgrounds[3238471]=new photo(3238471,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0265 (2)2.JPG",800,599,"People!",1,1,"The introduction of people, not many around at 6am, gives scale to the huge dunes.","","Robin Barker","Namib desert","","","",18);backgrounds[3258373]=new photo(3258373,"126786","","gallery","IMG_0252 (2).JPG",800,524,"Sunset",1,1,"The crystal clear air of the Namib Desert produces some incredible sunsets and the amimals too, look at their best","","Robin Barker","Namib desert","","","",18);backgrounds[3554197]=new photo(3554197,"217501","","gallery","IMG_0292_2.JPG",800,599,"My first sighting.",1,1,"A brief walk through the garden of the Zambezi Sun hotel, past a checkpoint where you are counted out and counted back, through the game reserve and then this!!","","Robin Barker","","","","",18);backgrounds[3554222]=new photo(3554222,"217501","","gallery","IMG_0297_2.JPG",800,599,"It just gets better!",1,1,"The velocity of the water and the depth of the fall ensures spray of such intensity that a cloud is formed above the falls that returns as torrential rain.Although you get drenched it is warm, exhilarating, and simply fantastic.","","Robin Barker","Victoria Falls","","","",18);backgrounds[3554258]=new photo(3554258,"217501","","gallery","IMG_0299_2.JPG",800,599,"From the bridge",1,1,"David Livingstone discovered the falls as recently as 1855 and he sent a message back to Queen Victoria that no-one would believe him when he described what he had seen! An iron bridge was constructed some fifty years later spanning the river and providing a rail connection between the two countries. The picture was taken from the bridge at the point where people of unfathomable courage bungee jump!","","Robin Barker","Zambezi","","","",18);backgrounds[3554271]=new photo(3554271,"217501","","gallery","IMG_0274_2.JPG",800,599,"The spray",1,1,"I think this picture shows how  close viewing of the falls can be such a liquid experience.","","Robin Barker","Victoria Falls","","","",18);backgrounds[3554295]=new photo(3554295,"217501","","gallery","IMG_0275_2.JPG",800,599,"The edge",1,1,"Only a few feet from disaster. No-one has survived going over the edge. Many elephants and hippos have gone over and none has survived the drop of more than 1000 feet. ","","Robin Barker","Victoria Falls","","","",18);backgrounds[3554342]=new photo(3554342,"217501","","gallery","1045.jpg",800,534,"A broad perspective",1,1,"Taken from a helicopter, by my Belgian friend Arlette, the picture shows something of the huge scale of this natural phenomenon. No-one should pass through life without seeing this sight which touches the soul.","","Arlette Dijckmans-Deckers","Victoria Falls","","","",18);backgrounds[3571182]=new photo(3571182,"218335","","gallery","File0055_2.jpg",800,583,"The Okovanga Delta",1,1,"This picture is typical of this unique waterway. It stretches for thousands of square miles and depending of the season can be almost all water or barely saturated reed beds. This picture was taken before the rainy season gets fully underway. There are water lilies everywhere and the crystal clear water is shallow.","","Robin Barker","Okovanga Delta","","","",18);backgrounds[3571362]=new photo(3571362,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0614_2.JPG",800,599,"Channels",1,1,"The channels which criss cross the delta are made by Hippopotamus and are very convenient for the occasional small boat or canoe","","Robin Barker","Botswana","","","",18);backgrounds[3571368]=new photo(3571368,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0324_2.JPG",800,599,"Sunset",1,1,"Neither sunset nor sunrise ever disappoints here!","","Robin Barker","Botswana","","","",18);backgrounds[3571387]=new photo(3571387,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0551_2.JPG",800,599,"Over the yardarm",1,1,"CC Africa, now &Beyond look after every need","","Robin Barker","Okovang Delta","","","",18);backgrounds[3571453]=new photo(3571453,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0371_2.jpg",800,563,"Impala",1,1,"Probably the commonest antelope and favourite dinner of Lion, Leopard and Cheetah. These highly sensitive animals keep a constant watch in order to stay alive.","","Robin Barker","Botswana","","","",18);backgrounds[3575918]=new photo(3575918,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0475_2.JPG",800,599,"Giraffes",1,1,"Beautiful, friendly and docile animals protective of each other and no threat to humans. Vulnerable to lions hunting in a pack.","","Robin Barker","Chobe","","","",18);backgrounds[3576110]=new photo(3576110,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0492_2.JPG",800,600,"Mother and child",1,1,"Always stay well clear of a nursing mother. She can overturn a Land Rover with little difficulty.","","Robin Barker","Chobe","","","",18);backgrounds[3576126]=new photo(3576126,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0496_2.JPG",800,545,"Leopard siesta",1,1,"It is always a thrill to see these proud animals who are totally unconcerned at the occasional incursion into their territory. Although in the hour or so we observed her she changed her position in the tree several times she never turned her head away.","","Robin Barker","Savuti","","","",18);backgrounds[3576132]=new photo(3576132,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0519_2.JPG",800,573,"Vigil",1,1,"Animals subjected to predatorial activity have to be on lookout constantly","","Robin Barker","Chobe","","","",18);backgrounds[3576147]=new photo(3576147,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0543_2.JPG",800,599,"Transport",1,1,"Most lodges have or share a landing strip. A transfer sometimes takes more than an hour such is the vastness of this glorious country","","Robin Barker","Savuti","","","",18);backgrounds[3576165]=new photo(3576165,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0582_2.JPG",800,570,"Out of nowhere",1,1,"All is quiet and serene when suddenly, out of nowhere a herd of elephants appears. We counted 16 here and were just thankful we werte not directly on their intended route","","Robin Barker","Xudum, Okovanga Delta","","","",18);backgrounds[3576169]=new photo(3576169,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0579_2.JPG",800,599,"Some more",1,1,"Our ranger decided enough was enough and we reversed at speed.","","Robin Barker","Xudum","","","",18);backgrounds[3576179]=new photo(3576179,"218335","","gallery","IMG_0608_2.JPG",800,599,"More hospitality",1,1,"Sundown is the signal for bringing civilisation into the Okovanga Delta.","","Robin Barker","Okovanga","","","",18);