AN avid photographer in Astley Bridge managed to capture the iconic Northern Lights last night in Bolton.

Ian Bolton managed to take the stunning photograph on his digital camera after being notified by an app at 11pm.

The app - AuroraWatch UK - is able to monitor solar activity from the sun, and predict possible sightings.

Ian has previously tried to capture the lights in the Lake District without success, due to the unpredictability of them and not knowing the exact place to look.

This picture was taken at 23:15 looking north, from Belmont Road.

He said: "I am only a short distance away from the open countryside, so it's about being in the right place at the right time with the right conditions really.

"There also isn't much light pollution, which helps too.

"The system will warn you when there has been an increase in activity and when you can see the lights.

"The Northern Lights are so amazing to see, and I am very fortunate.

"It's a chance to see something you wouldn't normally see.

"I think there may be one photo in the area, but the app is great for those more interested in capturing them."

Ian said that in order to capture the Northern Lights you just need a digital camera where you can adjust the ISO sensitivity so that it can record a picture when it’s dark.

Ian used a Nikon mirrorless camera, which has been recommended for photographing the Northern Lights.

One of the key tricks to capturing the Northern Lights he said was, taking a picture as soon as the notification comes through.

He has always had an interest in photography, but has taken it more seriously in the past 15 years since digital cameras became available.

Ian said: "I love being outside in the open air.

"It's a fantastic insight in time that only you have seen."