FOR three decades, photographer Paul Williams has been wandering around St Austell, camera in hand, capturing the town exactly as it is: the good bits and the tough bits, the moments that made people laugh and those that that stopped them in our tracks.

You can now view more than 600 of his photographs in an exhibition at Harry Billinge House in South Street, home of exhibition partner Harbour Housing. Among them are memories of festivals, floods, police scenes, pantos, protests, sport, quiet backstreets and big civic moments.

“It’s 30 years of history as it happened, not always pretty, but always true,” said former Voice photographer Paul, who describes the display as “a love letter” to the town and its people.

“St Austell isn’t a perfect place - no town is - but it’s honest, spirited and full of character, and that’s what I’ve tried to show through the lens.

“Bringing together over 600 photos from the million I’ve taken over the years, all under one roof, is something I never imagined possible. These images have lived in albums, on hard drives and in my home for years. They finally have a fitting home in the town centre, where anyone can walk in and recognise a friend, a neighbour, or even their younger self.”

Paul is especially pleased to exhibit his images at Harry Billinge House, named after the war hero who appears in one of his photographs. “Harry was a dear friend and a local legend. He always insisted he wasn't a hero, believing the true heroes were those who didn't return from the war,” said Paul.

“My hope is people will walk through the doors, look around, and feel proud of the town we’ve lived, laughed and battled through together. This exhibition isn’t polished or selective; it’s raw, real St Austell.”

Following a VIP launch on Monday evening, the exhibition will be open to community groups and the general public from December 2 to Monday, December 8, noon to 8pm.