A CARBON plant engineer is embarking on a new creative career path after wowing the public with his charcoal drawings.

Peter Davidson, 43, from Ellington, Northumberland, works as a rodder at Rio Tinto Alcan’s Lynemouth smelter carbon plant.

After learning the smelter would close, he decided to become a professional artist.

Peter, who goes by the name of ‘Deetz’ in the art world, has always had a passion for drawing which details the strong mining heritage of South East Northumberland and decided to take it up professionally after some successful commissions. He said: “I’ve drawn all my life as a hobby but over the last year or so I’ve been displaying my work and getting some fantastic feedback.

“My last day on-site at Lynemouth Smelter is May 31.

“I’m excited about taking my career in a different direction but it is very nerve-racking too. Everyone on-site has been incredibly supportive. I’ve also had some advice from the company’s outplacement support team so I know how to set up my business to make a living.”

Peter’s drawings depict his childhood memories of the local area and his family.