Sunderland artist Alan Pearson's legacy of paintings he never showed including Vaux horses, Fawcett Street - and Marilyn Monroe

When his children went to clear out his flat they found around 50 pictures he had painted and framed. They knew he liked to paint, but had no idea he was such a productive artist. Alan had no formal training as a painter.

Some of his old friends at his funeral were amazed to see his work, some of which was included in the order of service. They didn’t even know that he painted.

Subjects included family, images of Wearside as well as foreign locations, and international stars such as Paul Newman, Marilyn Monroe and Rihanna.

Here is a selection of 13 of Alan’s paintings for you to enjoy.