A new photography exhibition has launched at the Elgiva Theatre in Chesham to show off the sights of The Ridgeway National Trail. 

'Pathways - A Photographic Journey Along the Ridgeway' launched at the theatre on Saturday, October 26 and will stay on show until November 25. 

The exhibition celebrates 50 years of the 87-mile route that runs from Avebury in Wiltshire, all the way to Ivinghoe Beacon. 

It was created by Matt Writtle, a UK documentary and portrait photographer from the Black Country who is now based in Chiltern Hills. 

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His photography attempts to observe and capture the behaviour of humanity in its current form, or as a reflection of its legacy, and explore its relationship and impact on the environment.

Speaking about his latest project, Matt said: "When considering the origins of the Ridgeway, I was at first drawn to its claim to be the oldest trading route in Britain.

"But as I walked and absorbed the ambience of its trail, I began to understand the reasons behind its organic creation. I arrived at one simple conclusion: survival. 

"Our evolution, from the earliest Homo Sapiens to present-day life, began by travelling to forage or hunt for food.

"The route of a successful hunt – or passage – to fruit and vegetables was passed on through generations to ensure the survival of our species.

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"As these journeys were repeated, over time an imprint became visible on the landscape: these paths have become roads, motorways, sea channels and flight paths, ensuring a global community and greater understanding of cultures. 

"Yet, as we venture further into an uncertain world, dominated by climate change and global warming, my creative practice focuses on how we, as a species, impact the landscape."

He added that the images aim to illustrate the 'historic, contemporary and future development' of the Ridgeway.

The photographer, who has over 30 years of experience in the UK and around the world, was first approached to produce the exhibition in 2022 by The Ridgeway National Trail. 

The exhibition is available to see between 10.30am and 3pm with tickets available from the box office.