A Hexham author and artist has penned a new book based on her childhood memories.

The 89-year-old Marjorie Graham, who has lived in Hexham for more than 25 years, illustrates her experiences of growing up in Oldham during the 1930-40s, with vivid recollections from life between the cotton mills.

Alongside her own illustrations, the book also features contributions from her brother, Peter Carey.

A feature of the book, available in hardback on a 'print on demand' basis, are stories that are both humorous and poignant.

They transport readers to unique scenarios such as singing in an outside toilet or dealing with an awkward situation in a chip shop.

The stories also deeply echo the fate of those perceived as 'different' in that era.

One particular story, the 'Black Angel', paints the harsh reality of the bitter winter of 1947.

The difficulty of lighting a fire with damp coke, essential for the author's mother Edith during the war, was recounted here.

Remembering the time, Ms Graham said: "It's difficult to imagine now, just how wonderful it was to be warm for the first time in weeks."

Another story 'Tea with Mr. Lowry', about the artist's visit to the family home in Crompton Street, is set to coincide with Gallery Oldham's hosting of Lowry's painting 'Going to the Match'.

The event starts from December 2, 2023, to February 24, 2024, where the book will be on display.

Highlighting the personal nature of the stories, Ms Graham said: "The stories feature my mother Edith, my father Leonard, and my brother Peter.

"My mother's sisters, Vera and Hilda, and her parents Ada and Jim, also lived on the same terraced street.

"Crompton Street rose sharply from the road to Rochdale, and at the foot of the street Mrs Taylor kept a small grocery shop.

"I hope that these stories make you smile."

Born in Manchester in 1934, Ms Graham honed her skills with a two-year scholarship at Oldham School of Art leading to a career spanning teaching to integration into multi-cultural arts.

Her brother, Peter Leonard Carey, born in 1931 has equally contributed to this book and the art world.

Mr Carey said: "Several themes are important to me - the steep cobbled streets of my youth; the shocking suffering of homeless and migrant people; the joy of people dancing together."