by Richard Robins
7 September 2010
A father of four is looking forward to building up his new family business after recovering from a road traffic accident.
This Is Scunthorpe reports the encouraging story of Rick Wilks, who was laid up in hospital for a month with a fractured spine after being knocked off his motorbike three years ago.
While stuck in his hospital bed, Rick began reading photography magazines, which reawakened his love of the lens. He decided to set up his own business.
He says: "It was a really tough time, but it did give me a kick up the backside and made me realise I should be doing something I was passionate about, and that only I could make it happen.
"I was really interested in photography when I was younger, but as you get older and take on other jobs these things can slide away from you.
"There were loads of photography magazines in the hospital and they really got me thinking about it again and I realised this is what I wanted to do.
"While I was recovering I couldn't go out and do a day's work and I still have problems with my back occasionally, so being self-employed is ideal for me as I've got that added flexibility."
Pink Elephant Photography will open its doors on Thursday. Rick has decided not to name the studio after himself to encourage other photographers to join.
"This is our family business now and I can't wait to get started and hopefully make it a success."