AN Army officer has launched his first photographic exhibition to raise cash for a Gurkha soldiers' charity.

Major Ade Clewlow, who heads 246 Gurkha Signal Squadron at Imphal Barracks, York, recently returned from a language course in Nepal.

While there, he photographed its people, cities and landscape and pictures of his travels go on display at the Slug and Lettuce pub, Swinegate, in York, for a month from today.

Maj Clewlow said: "I am hoping people will come along and support the exhibition, which will benefit the Kohima Educational Trust and Gurkha Welfare Trust.

"They can either buy prints of the photographs or simply come along and enjoy the exhibition and make a donation, which will provide educational sponsorship of young people in Nagaland or assist serving and former Gurkhas and their families in times of need."

Major Clewlow took command of the squadron last year and, although the Gurkhas learn English, it is common practice for their commanding officer to visit Nepal to study his men's language, culture and customs.

He said: "I had the privilege to visit the country in spring and took the opportunity to capture some of the sights and people."