A NOVEL photographic exhibition featuring some powerful and poignant images captured by men with prostate cancer is underway at a North-East hospital.

In January, the Trinity Holistic Centre, in the grounds of Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital, launched a pilot photography project, funded by Prostate Cancer UK, for men with the disease.

Its aim was to provide greater emotional support to those living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and to give them the opportunity to learn new photography skills with a digital camera.

Four patients - Brian Addison, Gerry Armstrong, John Dilworth and Rick Reed – signed up for an eight-week course, delivered by local photographer John Kerr and supported by counsellor Margaret Booth.

Each of their images on show includes a personal viewpoint of their illnesses.

John Kerr said: “The subject matter of this workshop was incredibly emotive and we were not really sure what response we would get. We needn’t have worried as the group quickly became its own support network while producing some thought-provoking and technically excellent photographs and narrative.”

Trinity Holistic Centre business manager Heather McLean said: "The images are deeply moving and I’d like to thank all four for taking part and sharing their work. Hopefully it will help to tackle the taboo that surrounds this part of men’s health and that more will recognise the early signs and seek help.”

“It was a great help talking with the others," said Mr Addison, 56, of Redcar. "My favourite photo is ‘Lonely’ as the circling seagulls portray being surrounded by family and friends, yet I still felt alone.”

Mr Reed, 60, of Guisborough, said: “It’s been a brilliant course. I hope this continues, not just for prostate cancer patients but for all forms of cancer.

Mr Armstrong, 68, from Billingham, said: “This has put the fun back into photography and that is what it’s about for me," while Mr Dilworth, 63, from Nunthorpe, added: “It’s helped me see for myself what prostate cancer is all about – what it means for me not only physically, mentally and emotionally but in my relationships with my wife, family and friends.”

Renowned North-East photographer Joe Cornish, who visited the exhibition, said: “These gentlemen have proactively explored what they were looking at and reflected on what they saw and in that process they discovered something about themselves. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more powerful example of that ‘discovery’ than here at this exhibition.”

In the interests off promoting greater awareness of prostate cancer the exhibition is available for loan to companies in the region. For more information ring Heather McLean on 01642 854839.