AN exhibition of paintings by a local artist has opened in east Durham.

Dawson Elliott, of Easington Colliery, is well known in County Durham for his artwork and has held numerous exhibitions.

A small exhibition of his paintings went on display at the Discovery Centre, at Seaton Holme, in Easington Village, and will run until August 28.

The paintings cover a wide range of subjects, including local scenes and steam trains.

Mavis Burn, exhibition organiser, said: "Dawson Elliott has had several exhibitions here in the past and they've always proved very popular."

Mr Elliott will hold a further larger exhibition at Seaton Holme, in The Long Gallery, from September 10 to October 5.

Seaton Holme is open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays and 11am to 4pm at weekends.

Admission to the exhibition is free.