THEY are the evocative scenes which remind the North-East of its rich heritage.

Now artist Adam Baldwin is recording the heyday of the region's heavy industry.

Six years ago, Mr Baldwin, 56, from Hurworth Place, near Darlington, gave up a career in construction management, which included jobs in the chemical and steel industries, to become a full-time artist.

Part of a loose collective of artists working from a house in Frederick Street, in Thornaby, near Stockton, he has produced charcoal drawings of scenes familiar to him during his time in industry, but which are now vanishing rapidly.

His work is being hailed as an example of the depth of talent across the region that has helped the Newcastle and Gateshead bid for European Capital of Culture 2008.

Paul Collard, head of programme development for the bid, said: "This is an example of how art is very relevant to real life. In the process, it is creating a valuable record of the urban landscapes which are an important aspect of our region's cultural heritage."

Now producing works depicting factories, chimney stacks, and steam engines, Mr Baldwin has exhibited widely.

He said: "My work is influenced by urban, industrial and rural landscapes, and reflects the physical, social and emotional aspects of living in the North-East.

"It is not about producing chocolate box images, it is more realistic. It is about feelings and evoking something in people."

One of his latest projects is with members of the North Eastern Locomotive Preservation Group, in Darlington, who are restoring a 1918 steam engine.

He has spent time with the men, many of whom are ex-railmen, and plans to produce pieces chronicling their efforts.