ART, photographs and video footage depicting a former north Durham steel town is to go on show.

The exhibition features paintings by Consett artist Michael James and will be at St Patrick’s Church in the town on Saturday, January 23.

Still images and DVDs showing the area’s industrial past will also be on display.

Mr James, 45, of Villa Real Road, said: “The idea is to show images of Consett over the years so there is an element of nostalgia to it.

“A number of these paintings show the old steelworks, which was the big industry of Consett back in the day.

“There are pictures of the old Front Street showing The Works, and the old Plaza, which is not there anymore.”

Mr James, who is a joiner, and married to Lucy with two children, said he has enjoyed putting the exhibition together and hopes to become a professional artist.

He added: “It has been like a trip down memory lane for me.”

Atmospheric brass band music will be performed by Consett Brass and conducted by school teacher David Jackson at around 1pm.

Mr James’ work has been featured on the last two Christmas cards produced by the band and 14 original paintings will be on sale on the day.

Mr Jackson said: “People will be able to look at his paintings and think ‘I remember’.

The exhibition is being held from noon-6pm. Free entry, all welcome.