AN exhibition by a top North-East artist has opened in the region.

South Shields-born Bob Olley is showing his work in Bishop Auckland town hall, County Durham, for the first time.

Mr Olley has been dubbed The Geordie Lowry because his work - which is mainly in oils - concentrates on everyday life in the North-East.

His exhibition, which opened yesterday in the Hutchinson Gallery, concentrates on the mining industry. Mr Olley was a miner from 1957 to 1968 at Whitburn Colliery and his great grandfather and other ancestors were all involved in the industry.

He said: "Apart from returning to my roots as a coal miner, I am also returning to my family roots here at Bishop Auckland."

The mining theme is used in 15 paintings and sculptures in the exhibition, which was opened by David Guy, president of the National Union of Miners in the North-East.

For details of the exhibition call (01388) 602610.