Unspoiled beaches and wide skies provided the backdrop to a new photography exhibition which has opened in Cromer.

Inspired by Norfolk, a collection by Norwich-based photographer Paul Macro, has gone on show at North Norfolk District Council's headquarters in the town's Holt Road.

The local authority offers local artists the opportunity to showcase its work in its first floor gallery with six exhibitions a year.

Paul, who revealed his snaps were inspired by family holidays at Burnham Overy Staithe, said: 'The sights, sounds and smells of the Norfolk coast are woven into my soul and my happy childhood is a bright tapestry of memories.

'Several times a year, at all times of the year, my family spent holidays and weekends in our caravan, where the beauty of Norfolk's unspoiled beaches and wide skies provided the backdrop to our other world, where there was peace and contentment and sibling harmony.

'My passion for Norfolk's dark winter skies and rough seas, fiery sunsets and tough, wind-slapped greenery was born from an early exposure to these beauties – before I knew they were beautiful.'

Paul is proud that his work has helped local charities, and he has received orders for his charity calendars from every continent. The RNLI, Nelson's Journey, Break and Red Balloon are amongst the charities that have benefited from his support.

He added: 'My life has been shaped by the landscape and the people of Norfolk and this is my way of giving a little bit back.'

The exhibition runs until September 13. The 1st Floor Gallery is open to the public from 8.30am to 5pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; from 10am to 5pm on Wednesdays; and from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Fridays.

Councillor Maggie Prior, the council's Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, said: 'This is another fantastic display, and it's lovely to see our exhibition space being used for such wonderful work. Paul brilliantly combines his natural skill and the wonderful Norfolk landscapes in his work.

'Do come and see Paul's exhibition – and if you are an artist yourself, why not apply to show your work in our gallery?'

Any inquiries about the pictures, which are for sale, should be made to Paul through his website at www.paulmacrolandscapes.com, or by calling 07727 644092.