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Samuel James.

A gallery of incredible Victorian photographs that show some of the first ever mug shots to be taken has emerged at Dorset History Centre.

The images date back to the mid 19th century when the concept of photography was still being launched after the invention of the camera.

Police realised they could use the new technology to their advantage and take pictures to help them recognise repeat offenders.

After some time it became the norm and eventually compulsory for criminals to be photographed after they were arrested.

An archive of images that originated from the Dorset County Gaol - later to be known as Dorchester Prison - have now come to light.