RAYLEIGH Windmill is offering browsers an insightful free taste of China.

The Bellingham Lane venue is currently playing host to an exhibition of striking images, giving a rare glimpse into the people and places of Jiangsu.

Photographer Anthony Channer travelled to Jiangsu and his photos are now the basis of a touring exhibition, which will visit all parts of Essex in the following months as part of the Essex-Jiangsu Festival.

This unique event is organised by Essex County Council to celebrate a continuing and successful 20 year partnership between the county and the Jiangsu Province in China.

The collection of around 200 photographs beautifully capture everyday life in Jiangsu - from children at school, to traders selling their produce at market - encapsulating the character of oriental life.

This free exhibition runs until Sunday, August 3, opening between 10am and 1pm next Wednesday, and 1pm until 4pm, this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) and next. For more information, call 01702 318171.

* The same exhibition will also be held at the Thameside Theatre, in Grays, between Tuesday, August 5 and Sunday, August 17, plus Castle Point Council offices, from Tuesday, August 19, until Sunday, August 31.