RESIDENTS are in awe of 'stunning' photographs that were taken in their town during lockdown using just a mobile phone.

Gong Xi, from Bicester, has been taking snaps each day to document the second lockdown before sharing them on the Bicester Chat Facebook group.

His posts have received hundreds of likes and people have expressed how much they love his photos, all of which were taken on his iPhone 11 Pro.

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Bicester resident Sue Cassini commented: "Just amazing photos, they are a joy to look at, thank you."

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Katherine May said: "These pictures are amazing and a great reminder of what we are going through and how much we should appreciate everything."

Sandy Wonnacott said: "All your photographs are stunning. Well done."

Mr Xi started photographing the town as a hobby during the first lockdown, but decided to share the photos this time round.

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The 33-year-old said: "It all started as a casual hobby. I was always taking photos when I was out and about walking with my three-year-old daughter back in the first lockdown, so I thought it was nice to share the lovely view with the residents via the Facebook group during the first few days for this second lockdown.

"Turns out lots of people loved it and it became very popular, it also triggered memories for many older generations who used to live or currently living here.

Bicester Advertiser:

"So I decided to do it everyday and seize this special opportunity to document the town when there is not as many people around and also to keep peoples spirits high during this time.

"I really enjoyed doing this everyday and people’s comments are also very inspiring and encouraging."

After lots of requests, Mr Xi has created a calendar for next year featuring some of the photos called 'Beauty and the Bicester' as well as a photo book.

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Mr Xi said: "The cost of the calendar is £10 and I’m going to donate 20 per cent of the profit to support a local Bicester charity and the NHS.

"Many people have shown their interest to buy earlier on. I’ve also got the Bicester train station manager and few local stores are willing to help me promote it."

After launching the calendar and photo book on Saturday, people have already starting placing orders and Mr X will be delivering them to people's homes.

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He added: "I’m thinking of dressing myself as Santa to surprise people when I’m knocking on their doors (but hope the kids won’t see the taking payment part)."

The photographer has not decided which Bicester charity some of the funds from the calendars will go to yet, but has asked people to nominate a local person or community group that deserves it.

To view Mr Xi's photos, search Beauty and Bicester on Facebook and Instagram.

For enquiries or to pre-order, email beautyandbicester@gmail.com with your name, quantity needed and delivery/collection details.