FORCED to take early retirement because of ill health Tom Valks decided to turn his hand to creative pursuits.

This week his work has gone on display in the Long Gallery at Seaton Holme, in Easington Village.

Born in Easington Colliery and now living in Houghton-le-Spring, Mr Valks worked in the building trade until 1996, when he was diagnosed with throat cancer.

Following two operations and a lot of help and support by hospital staff, he has now regained his health.

With new-found time on his hands Mr Valks, who enjoyed art at school, decided to join Houghton and Hetton Art Club.

He also enrolled on a Watercolour for Beginners' course at Shiney Row College and still continues to attend both college and art club.

The paintings on display are of a variety of topics, including birds in flight.

There are also a number of his wood carvings on show.

The paintings are his most recent works and many have been on exhibit at other venues, including the Sunderland Wintergarden and Museum, Shiney Row College and Houghton Feast.

The gallery is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm. Admission is free.