Teresa Pearce MP for Erith and Thamesmead has praised the work of artists suffering mental illness, encouraging residents to support their show.

The display by Centrepieces a charity which helps people with mental illness develop, exhibit and sell their art works opens at the Lodge, Hall Place on April 25.

Mrs Pearce has praised the work of the charity, revealing she was given a piece from a Centrepieces exhibition as a surprise 60th birthday present.

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Teresa Pearce with a picture by Centrepieces artist, Segun Oratokhai

She said: "At a event held by Re-Instate, where Centrepieces art works were on show, I was captivated by this striking charcoal and pastel piece by Nigerian artist, Segun Oratokhai.

"My family then clubbed together and bought it for me for my 60th birthday and it now hangs in my living room.

"I think Centrepieces are doing a really important job in supporting artistic expression by people with mental illness."

The exhibition is open until May 24.