A BRAZILIAN photographer is bringing Latin inspiration to the Stockton International Riverside Festival.

Gilmar Ribeiro captured the colour of last year's festival and gave the event's organisers hundreds of images.

They were so impressed that they asked him to work on this year's extravaganza.

The festival now only forms a small part of the Brazilian's work - he is equally at home encouraging youngsters to take up photography.

"I believe if you give something without wanting anything in return, you will be rewarded later," he said.

"Hopefully, what I'm trying to do will take off and people will take advantage of facilities we are trying to get up and running."

Gilmar, who originally hails from Sao Paulo, was given an office in the Green Dragon Studio in the town.

He hopes his connections with leading artists and Europe can be tempted to the region to spread their knowledge.

He said: "Hopefully, we will be able to generate a lot of interest in the festival from people across Europe. I have worked in many places around the world and it is very rare to get such a wonderful event that is free."

Gilmar moved to Teesside last year when his wife, Sheila, who was born in Thornaby, decided she wanted to return to her native homeland with their two children.

Gilmar also works with youngsters from across Teesside, passing on his skills.