A hospice photography group has proved that people with terminal illnesses can still fulfill their passions and have a quality of life.

North London Hospice’s photography group ‘Catching The Light’ was founded two years ago after patients expressed an interest in photography.

Their first exhibition on Thursday December 5 will include a variety of images ranging from mountain landscapes and seascapes to portraits, plant life in summer and autumn and stairways.

Karen, a founding member of the group, said: “We’re not dead yet! We have a lot of life left to live and a lot of passions. Yes many of us are terminally ill but there are a lot of things you can do with your life before your expiry date.

“We also want this exhibition to provide a reason for people to come and see the Health & Wellbeing Centre and to appreciate this magnificent space. It's a very peaceful space. We want to demystify it to people and to help others who may be facing a life-limiting illness understand it’s a place they can come to for support.”

The group meets monthly for photography walks through London and holds practical studio sessions so members can improve their skills.

It is made up of people from all walks of life, including engineers, lawyers and sales managers who all enjoy looking at life through a lens.

Ajay, who was part of the core group who founded Catching the Light in November 2017, said: “When we started we had no real plan. Photography skills ranged from zero to quite experienced. Some people used their phones and others had the full kit, but it gave us another purpose in life and for some, it was the reason to get out of bed in the morning.

“It’s turned into a very therapeutic group that has helped stimulate conversation and friendships. Behind the cancer we all have skills and jobs and this exhibition has enabled us to combine our skills. Some of the photographs have real meaning to the person who has taken them, so we hope that people who come will not only see them as great pieces of artwork, but they would be happy to hang them on their walls and also understand the history behind them.”

Proceeds raised from the sale of photographs at the event will be donated to support patient care at North London Hospice.

The exhibition will take place at the Health & Wellbeing Centre, 110 Barrowell Green, Winchmore Hill, N21 3AY, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and refreshments will be available.

The exhibition is free to attend and tickets can be obtained by following this link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/catching-the-light-photography-exhibition-tickets-76439477535?aff=ebdssbdestsearch