A diplomat is to open a new exhibition about the lives of Belgian refugees during the First World War. 

Guy Trouveroy, the Belgian ambassador to the UK, will visit Walthamstow's William Morris Gallery next month to launch the event, which showcases the lives of 250,000 Belgians who sought sanctuary in England.

The exhibition, entitled Help is Better than Sympathy, features a series of rare paintings and illustrations by artist Frank Brangywn, a profilic poster-maker synonymous with First World War propaganda.  

Mr Trouveroy, a former ambassador to Moscow, said: "It is a great pleasure to be invited to launch this important exhibition.

"The story of the Belgian refugees illustrates the depth of friendship between our two countries, while Brangwyn’s work exemplifies our strong artistic ties." 

He will open the event, which runs until Setember 14, on May 23.