SHE was one of the most photographed women of the 20th century, but there are still some images of screen goddess Marilyn Monroe that have never been published.

A series of these photographs of the Some Like It Hot actress are to be displayed at a Witney gallery on Thursday.

Eight black and white portraits of Marilyn by photojournalist Eve Arnold include striking images of the star relaxing at home, on a plane and in bed - and some on the set of The Misfits in 1960, just two years before her death.

Eve Arnold, who was friends with the iconic star for ten years and worked with her in informal, unposed situations, said: "She trusted me and she was a joy to photograph.

"She liked my pictures and was canny enough to realise that they were a fresh approach to presenting her.

"By seeing Marilyn through photographs - the only way most people ever saw her - it may be possible to get some idea of how she saw herself and perhaps to glean some insight into the phenomenon that was Marilyn Monroe."

Patsy Hughes, of the Meller Gallery on Church Green where the photographs will be on display, said the image of Marilyn Monroe continues to fascinate both old and young alike.

She added: "Almost 45 years after her death, she still symbolises the glamour and the heartbreak of Hollywood.

"We will be having a Marilyn Monroe extravaganza on Thursday, where people can view the pictures with a glass of wine in the elegant atmosphere of the 50s.

"Gallery staff and friends will try to recreate the feel of the Monroe era, with some even dressing up as Marilyn, to provide a stylish backdrop for the photographs."

For more information on the exhibition contact the Meller Gallery in Church Green at 01993 708606.