‘Charting the Course’ is a fabulous exhibition at Hartlepool Art Gallery that examines the town’s maritime heritage.

The SS Pocklingtron (pictured) was built by Charles Steels who was an interesting cove. He made two ships, in Hartlepool, the other being named after himself: The SS Charles Steels. That particular ship was reported missing in 1898 and six years later a bottle was found containing a message from one of the crew saying that they had collided with an unknown ketch and were sinking fast. ‘Charting the Course’ tells the story of Hartlepool’s maritime heritage through a collection of artworks, objects and stories. It brings together ship portraits from the Under Steam Collection, featuring over a century of maritime history, alongside treasures from Hartlepool’s own collection.

Charting the Course: Hartlepool’s Maritime Heritage, Hartlepool Art Gallery, until 14 June, culturehartlepool.com