A new book and photographic exhibition is showcasing the vibrant characters who live in a major Kent town.

In a collaboration called Remarkable Characters of Tunbridge Wells, writer Anne Wagstaff and natural light photographer Mark Wilkinson, who are both interested in what makes people tick, introduce some of the most incredible people living in the historic spa town.

Opening today, the exhibition is being held at at Woods restaurant at numbers 62 and 64, The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells and will run until September 9.

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On display are 40 portraits and stories from local artists, musicians, volunteers, founders of community projects, and entrepreneurs ranging from ages six to 92.

Some of the amazing individuals included are Maxine Hallett, a reformed heroin addict who left an abusive relationship, turned her family’s life around and now supports others struggling across the county, and Beau Lane-Winch, a six-year-old who has won awards for looking after common land.

Some other characters include an ex-member of MI6 and the man who painted the striking images on Airfix model boxes that many will remember from childhood.

Ms Wagstaff said: “Behind the quick assumptions we make are real people with real stories and a texture to the town that is rich and multi-layered.

"If each person who visits the exhibition, or reads the book, takes away the thought that other people’s lives are as complex and vivid as their own, and takes the time to ask questions of others and listen to their replies, we would be delighted."

“We really are all remarkable,” she added.

The book is available to purchase online from www.remarkablecharacterstw.com and from shops across Tunbridge Wells including Waterstones, Halls Independent Book Shop, and Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery.

Proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to Fegans, a charity which provides children’s counselling and parent support services across the South East.

Entry is free to the exhibition but there will be an opportunity to make donations to Fegans and buy tickets for a “Remarkable Raffle.”

A social media campaign will run alongside the project, encouraging everyone to share their own remarkable stories, or those of people they know, using the hashtag #weareallremarkable.

For more information visit www.remarkablecharacterstw.com.