AN EXHIBITION of famous faces taking their hats off for charity has proved a hit.

Judi Dench, Hugh Grant, Ewan McGregor, Victoria Beckam and the band Coldplay are among the celebrities featured at Hartlepool Art Gallery.

Each of them is pictured taking their hats off in tribute to the people who deal with mental health problems but who still live positive lives.

The exhibition opened unexpectedly early last week and organisers said it is already a big attraction.

Called Hats Off, the exhibition is on loan to the gallery by mentality, a charity dedicated to promoting awareness of mental health.

The photographer is Jason Bell.

A gallery spokeswoman said: "It's a very striking exhibition and we're extremely pleased to have it here."

Admission to the gallery, in Church Square, is free. The gallery is open Tuesdays to Saturdays and on Sunday afternoons. It is closed on Mondays.