INTERNATIONALLY renowned North-East artist Mackenzie Thorpe is returning to his industrial roots to raise money for charity.

Mackenzie Thorpe has donated the numbered first copy of his upcoming book along with four prints and a small original painting to be auctioned at the Middlesbrough & Teesside Philanthropic Foundation's annual charity dinner tomorrow evening (Friday, October 3).

The items are expected to raise several thousands of pounds.

The Middlesbrough-born artist's book 'Out of the Shadows' recounts his story told through imagery, emotive quotes and unseen photographs.

It documents his upbringing in depressed post-war Middlesbrough, working in the shipyards from the age of 15 with no outlet for his artistic talent and his battle with undiagnosed dyslexia.

The Foundation is a registered Teesside charity which raises money to fund community work, including apprenticeships for youngsters, stocking food banks and fighting poverty.

Mr Thorpe said: "Middlesbrough is my home town and my early life there has shaped who I am today.

“The town and the area are still very close to my heart and I am delighted to be in a position to give something back to the community.”

Andy Preston, Chairman of the Foundation, said: “We’re grateful and honoured that Mackenzie has again boosted our efforts with such a remarkable auction prize.

* Bids can be e-mailed to info@teessidecharity.org.uk up until 6pm tomorrow (Friday, October 3)