SPORTS fans are invited to a new exhibition of photographs by Paul Floyd Blake at Manchester Art Gallery.

The northern artist has compiled Sport for Sport's Sake which features a series of striking portraits showing ordinary people involved in a variety of sports from football to fell-running, on public display together for the first time.

Blake's work depicts group photographs such as a team of Kurdish refugee footballers, individuals and couples such as show jumpers, lacrosse and tennis players. The images highlight the everyday realities of sport for amateur enthusiasts, their dedication contrasted by the grim weather and early morning starts. Blake is working with Sportsaid to document the progress of the country's up-and-coming young athletes as they train for the 2012 Olympics.

The exhibition runs from July 14 to October 14, and admission is free. The Mosley Street gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.