Looks like an Orb Weaver Brian. They make the strongest fibre known to man for its diameter. Can catch birds. Nice shot.
I was trying for a grasshopper when I noticed I had caught the end of his web with my balancing stick. Took 7 before he moved and this was the best. If i can i will capture what I call a Darth Vader special. they grow to about 10 inches leg tip to leg tip and I have seen they eat a swallow in three days that flew into one of their webs.
Ugh...The largest spider around here that I have seen is the one girl I photographed at 4" measured. 10" would be totally too much for me to handle - but, I just might peep with one eye open. Go for it, Brian.
Marie