A teenage photography enthusiast diagnosed with bone cancer in 2008 is holding his first exhibition to raise money and awareness of the disease.

Aaron Whitty, 19, will be displaying his work publicly for the first time at Watford Museum, in Lower High Street, from Monday.

The Oxhey Village resident, of Villiers Road, wants to spread awareness of cancer in young people and says he will donate 20 per cent of profits from any sold photographs to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

A former student at Bushey Meads School, Aaron sparked a love of capturing images when he bought his first camera on holiday in Spain at the age of 12. He said: “I love seeing pictures and wondering how the photographer captured them. I sleep with a notepad next to my bed as I’m always coming up with ideas while I fall asleep.

“I constantly have nerve pain but when I have a camera in my hand and I’m concentrating on photography I can forget about it – it is sort of an escape for me.”

The talented fashion designer believes more young people need to be aware of the signs of cancer so they can be diagnosed earlier. He said: “I was lucky that I was diagnosed quite early but it is really important for young people, if they have pain or a lump, to go and get it checked out. I don’t want to scare anyone, just make them aware that it can happen.”

Aaron’s photographs, including portraits, townscapes, landscapes and images of nature, will be on display at the museum until the end of January.

Among his artwork will be various quotes and sayings linked to the exhibition’s title of The All Clear.

Aaron explained: “It is not actually related to the all clear in terms of cancer, but more about a general attitude of always looking forward, clearing your mind and not looking back.

“I’m really excited about the exhibition but at the same time quite nervous about people seeing my work. It is really good to hear what people have to say about your photography though and I’m hoping this will be the first of many displays.”