Photo exhibits are free to see.

RETIRED electrician Doug Thwaites has launched a sparkling amateur photographic exhibition at Guisborough library.

Entitled Coast and Countryside of the North York Moors, the subject matter ranges from fabulous sunsets at Saltburn pier to moody portraits of famous landmarks like Whitby Abbey.

An unusual study of Saltburn pier lit at night is particularly stunning, as is a spectacular view of a North York Moors Railway steam train at Ruswarp.

Doug, who lives at Easington near Loftus and is entirely self-taught, started experimenting with a box Brownie camera in his teens.

He gradually improved and bought better equipment and became more adventurous in his subjects as he got older.

Doug said: "The Cleveland and North Yorkshire coastline is fantastic and ever changing and you can get some really spectacular shots."

In June, another exhibition of Doug's work will go on display at the Danby Moors visitor centre in the North York Moors National Park.

His exhibition at Guisborough library is free and continues during library opening hours until Friday.

CAPTION(S):

MOODY PORTRAIT: One of the pictures on display at Doug Thwaites' exhibition in Guisborough library; SELF-TAUGHT: Doug sitting at the exhibit, above