The work of an American-British animator involved in some of the most famous fantasy films of the twentieth century is to go on display for the first time in the North West.

The Lost Worlds of Ray Harryhausen: Creatures, Martians and Myths is to go on display for free at Sale Waterside in the town centre between October 26 and January 4.

Developed alongside the Ray Harryhausen Foundation, the exclusive exhibition is based on the book Ray Harryhausen: The Lost Movies, by John Walsh. It explores the work of the American-British animator involved in fantasy films including Jason and the Argonauts in the 1960s and Clash of the Titans in the 1980s.

There is artwork from the pre-production process for these works as well as for unrealised works including an adaptation of the book The War of the Worlds by H G Wells.

Connor Heaney, Collections Manager for the Ray Harryhausen Foundation, said: "Fans will be fascinated to see the alternate artwork for some of Ray Harryhausen's creations alongside previously-unseen prototype models from the Ray Harryhausen Foundation's archive. 

"Given the connection between Ray Harryhausen and Cosgrove Hall Productions Sale Waterside is the perfect place to showcase these unique and unseen treasures."

This exhibition follows on from other exhibitions of Cosgrove Hall Productions at Sale Waterside such as Scene on Screen and Postman Pat: Welcome to Greendale.

From 1996 to 1998, Mr Harryhausen worked with Brian Cosgrove and Mark Hall at the animation studio in Chorlton, Manchester, on the unrealised Story of Odysseus.

Catherine Hynes, Trafford Council's deputy leader and executive member for arts and culture, said: "We are honoured to be hosting this wonderful and unique exhibition at Sale Waterside. 

"This reinforces the importance Trafford Council places on culture for all residents and reflects on our commitment to fostering rich, real and accessible cultural experiences for everyone."

The Lost Worlds of Ray Harryhausen: Creatures, Martians and Myths is to go on display for free at Sale Waterside in the town centre between October 26 and January 4.

For information go to watersidearts.org/whats-on/ or @WatersideArts on social media.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.