A POIGNANT photograph of one of Saddleworth’s most iconic trees has been chosen as front cover of an internationally acclaimed rock band’s latest musical extravaganza.

The picture illustrates a seven CD box set celebrating Woolly Wolstenholme music from 1980 to 2010. He was a founding member of Barclay James Harvest, formed in Oldham in 1966.

It was taken by Craig Hannah, a highly respected photographer from Greenfield, who was approached by Keith and Monika Domone who run the websites.

Initially, they asked if Craig’s photograph of the famous lone tree at Dovestone could be part of the set.

“But I was delighted when the record label liked it that much they decided to use it for the cover,” said Craig.

“The area is relevant because on April 15 , 2014, a commemorative bench was unveiled in memory of Woolly at Dovestone Reservoir, the inscription says ‘Where Alphin and Alderman look on.’

“However the bench in my photo is not the one for Woolly, it is very close by though," Craig pointed out.

“The photo is of many peoples favourite tree in Saddleworth on the side of the path around the reservoir.

“It's a 30-second exposure shot taken at the end of December a year ago. I was lucky it was such a clear night. I usually avoid night photography when the moon is out as it can make capturing the stars difficult, but it was just over half full.

“This ended up adding to the photograph as it helped illuminate the bench in the foreground. The photo was one of my favourites from 2017.”

Craig, an industrial rope access inspector, added: “The reason I love taking photographs of Saddleworth is it is a stunning place to live, and enjoy trying to capture what makes the area special to me.

“The landscapes are very diverse from wooded valley bottoms to bleak rugged moorlands; they are constantly changing either due to seasons or weather.

“The contrast between the vast open moors and the historic villages, also the many unique events, means there is always something interesting to photograph. Saddleworth is also a great place to see and photograph wildlife.”

The box set celebrating the music of Woolly Wolstenholme - "A Collection 1980 – 2010”, comprises every solo album by the Barclay James Harvest founder and his band Maestoso.

You can link to the CD Box Set at: http://www.bjharvest.co.uk/s-strange.htm