RARE and unseen works by the late artist Norman Cornish will go on show in Cumbria this month.

Working directly with his family, Castlegate House Gallery in Cockermouth are showcasing more than 40 pieces, the majority of which will never before have been publicly seen.

Paintings and drawings of men at work and at leisure, walking to the pit-head, heading home, sat resting and in the "local" all feature in this new exhibition, opening on Saturday September 16.

It will showcase an array of subjects and media, from oils to watercolours, drawings and pastels, all from the home and studio of one of the UK's most respected 20th century social chroniclers.

This is a curated exhibition, chosen from Norman’s estate and in conjunction with his immediate family, and the gallery has had a film produced about Norman and his art, with a huge contribution from John Cornish, Norman’s son, who offers some very sensitive insights into his father.

This is a major exhibition for what is arguably the most important artist of the last century concerned with portraying a world that is all but now gone.

Doors will open on Saturday 16 at 10am, and a reception will be held from noon to 2pm with Norman’s immediate family there to talk over Norman’s work and life.

The exhibition then runs until Saturday October 7.