​Pioneering painter Sir Peter Blake today returned to his beloved city of Bath to open an unusual exhibition.

Sir Peter, who used to live in Wellow, was in the city to celebrate the work of the late artist Craigie Aitchison.

He opened an exhibition in Lansdown Crescent, which includes 20 of Scotsman Aitchison’s paintings loaned to the University of Bath from private collections across the South West.

The exhibition is the first of his work since the artist’s death last year.

Sir Peter, who is best known for designing the sleeve for the Beatles’ Sergeant Pepper album, now lives in Chiswick.

The 78-year-old said he was pleased to be back in Bath: “I think Bath is a beautiful city, and I always like to come back whenever I can.

“I was pleased to be asked to open the exhibition, as it gave me the excuse to visit.

“The artwork displayed in the exhibition is wonderful, and the surroundings complement the paintings.”

Sir Peter has decorated a lion, which stands at Victoria Art Gallery, as part of the Lions of Bath public art project, following his involvement two years ago in the King Bladud’s Pigs Project.

The Craigie Aitchison exhibition is being held at the residence of the University of Bath vice chancellor, Professor Glynis Breakwell.

Craigie, who was best known for his paintings of the Bedlington Terrier and crucifixions, received an honorary doctor of arts degree from the university.

Professor Breakwell said: “Craigie was an exceptional artist.

“The university is privileged to honour his work in this first retrospective exhibition.”

The exhibition will be held at 16 Lansdown Crescent, from Friday until Sunday, from 12 noon until 4pm.