BATHED in the fading sun or giving off an angelic glow, the West Pier and surrounding icons have been given an extra dimension in these shots.

Photographer Brian Johnson says he “fell in love” with Brighton during a visit, leading to this series of images.

He says his personal favourite is the shot entitled ‘Temple’ – depicting a place where he has spent “many seasons” .

He added: “I began visiting Brighton many years ago and have slowly fell in love with the area.

“Being a photographer I was able to put down ideas and create an image that others can also enjoy.

“I was particularly captivated by the skeletal remains of the West Pier, something almost spiritual; being in its presence just felt right.”

The photos are now on display at the Best Western hotel in King’s Road, Brighton, after the photographer stayed there during a visit to the town.

He said: “Upon leaving an image behind the reception while our room was being prepared it was brought to the attention of Daniel Reed, the hotel manager.

“It was decided that The Brighton hotel was going to be the future home for The West Pier Collection and the rest is history.”

Mr Johnson grew up in the ‘quiet’ town of Bideford, North Devon, and started to teach himself photography in the early ‘90s.

He added: “I now take what most consider to be a standard shot whether that be a portrait or landscape and add some sort of third dimension to it.

“If somebody has a crazy idea, the chances of it becoming a reality is pretty high. I love a challenge.”

• You can see all the images at The Best Western hotel, 143 to 145 King’s Road, Brighton.

 

• The Temple

BRIAN SAYS: I love this piece, it’s probably my personal favourite. I have spent many seasons just sitting alongside this haunting monument and feel it captures with menace what I feel inside when in its presence.

• Echoes of the Past

BRIAN SAYS: This piece is particularly special as when nature decides to unleash it's unwelcome ferocity it is this bandstand that we take refuge in. I needed to include the pier in this shot as it is what I always think of whenever I see this bandstand.

• Blue Water White Death

BRIAN SAYS: This shot to me holds a vision of calm with a vision of power. The almost god-like light that bathes these skeletal remains envisage a world at peace. This simple image has a powerful message.

• Home Time

BRIAN SAYS: I love this fun image, I feel it is what Brighton summers are all about – the calmness of the air, the gentle waves lapping the shores, the seagull in flight dangerously close to unsuspecting beach dwellers, this shot depicts the end of a busy day on the beach for both man and beast.