The huge fire which destroyed part of Fakenham town centre in the spring has been captured in a painting which will be sold to raise money for charity.

Eastern Daily Press: Fire in Fakenham town centre.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYFire in Fakenham town centre.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2014)

Bryan Exton, 78, who lives in Nottingham, is so fond of Fakenham he wanted to use his artistic skill to help the town.

Mr Exton said: 'I've been getting to know Fakenham while visiting a friend in Cromer and I think it's a wonderful town. I'm looking to retire here.

'I was visiting on the day of the fire and I caught the tail end of it.

'It was a real tragedy for this lovely town.'

The fire, on May 25, destroyed one of Fakenham's most historic and recognisable buildings, the former Aldiss store, in Upper Market Place.

The incident caused what has been described as the biggest destruction Fakenham has suffered since the Second World War bombings.

Mr Exton, who runs a vintage motorcycle shop in Nottingham, and has enjoyed art as a hobby since his school days, did his painting using oil paints and pencil.

He said: 'I was top of the class for art at school.

'I did the piece from pictures I'd seen in the newspaper. I may do another one of there is enough interest in this.'

He added: 'I love Fakenham because the people there are very friendly, it has great markets and there is a lovely atmosphere.

'You don't have the crime, the traffic and the hectic city lifestyle that I am used to in Nottingham.'

Mr Exton would like people to contact him with offers of at least £50 for the painting.

He also wants to hear from local charities who would like to receive funding.

Mr Exton said: 'I'd particularly be interested in donating money to a cancer charity as my wife and some of her family died of cancer but I'd be happy for any local charity to contact me and make their case.'

Mr Exton can be contacted by calling 0115 9272069 or 0115 9751888.

Do you have a Fakenham story? E mail adam.lazzari@archant.co.uk