A former regional press photographer of the year has raised thousands of pounds for charity after embarking on a coronavirus lockdown portrait project.

HTFP reported in May how Will Johnston, who worked for the Leicester Mercury until 2017, offered doorstep portraits to families in Kenilworth, the Warwickshire town where he lives, to capture their time living under the restrictions.

He decided to take on the project after the pandemic put paid to his freelance work – a situation he still describes as “worrying”.

Will, pictured, uploaded the photos to social media for free, but asking for donations to be made to NHS charities in lieu of payment.

The winner of the Daily/Sunday Photographer of the Year at the Regional Press Awards for 2013 has now revealed he raised a total of £2,350 through the project.

He captured iamges of more than 80 families during lockdown.

Will told HTFP: “I loved the project, it was great to meet people and capture some special moments.

“I’ve had lovely feedback, received flowers and wine and even had a fish named after me.

“I’m hoping to get back to work soon but uncertain times for my business which is worrying.”