A NEW exhibition showing the district’s once-loved mills and abandoned attractions in a new and hauntingly beautiful light is set to open at Cliffe Castle Museum in Keighley.

Ilkley-born photographer, Simon Sugden’s The Beauty In Decay features 17 photographic prints which were inspired by derelict architecture where nature has begun to take over.

The Yorkshire-based photographer’s work explores the idea that buildings have a second chance after their useful life, where nature and decay creates a new kind of beauty.

The works give a different perspective of Bradford’s urban history and the museum will be offering people the opportunity to talk to Simon at a special ‘Meet the Artist’ session where he will be available to discuss his photography and ideas behind them.

The Beauty In Decay will be staged within a dedicated temporary display space on the balcony of the Bracewell Smith Hall at Cliffe Castle Museum.

Due to the historic nature of the building the exhibition space can only be accessed via stairs so a brochure of the works will be provided for people to browse on the ground floor Breakfast Room.

The Beauty In Decay runs from July 20 to September 8. People can meet the artist on Saturday, July 27from 12 noon to 2pm.

Cliffe Castle Museum opens: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4pm.

Last admission 3.30pm. Admission is free.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Healthy People and Places Portfolio Holder, said: “We are very proud to be showing such creative and insightful works by this celebrated local photographer.

“The exhibition gives people the opportunity to explore local heritage in a new way, and find beauty in unexpected places.”

Simon Sugden, said: “I’ve been doing photography now for 10 years. I want to show the beauty in decay. With decay some derelict buildings seem to get a new lease of life and that’s what I wanted to show in this exhibition.”