A host of leading comedians including Jimmy Carr (pictured), Simon Pegg, David Mitchell and Richard Wilson will feature in a new photography exhibition in support of housing charity Shelter.

Photographer Paul Heneker has created an exhibition called 'Funny Faces', which features portraits of many of the country's leading comedians. Al Murray, Andi Osho, Andy Parsons, Bill Bailey, Chris Addison, Dara O'Briain, Ed Byrne, Omid Djalili, Tim Vine, Russell Kane and Sean Hughes are amongst the stand-up comedians photographed, and the exhibition will also feature exclusive photos of comedy veterans including Alexei Sayle, Andrew Sachs, Barbara Windsor, Barry Cryer, Cannon & Ball, Alexei Sayle, Josie Lawrence, Nicholas Parsons and Tony Robinson.

The Funny Faces exhibition will be taking place from 6th - 17th December 2011 at the Strand Gallery (32 John Adam Street, London).

The 48 portraits, each signed by the comedian featured, will be auctioned on eBay with the proceeds going to Shelter.

Stand-up comic and Peep Show actress Isy Suttie, who is one of the comedians photographed, says: "Christmas should be a time for giving, receiving and arguing over the last Quality Street - not worrying about a roof over your head. I hope that through the Funny Faces exhibition we can help raise money to support Shelter's work this Christmas - so get bidding now!"

Campbell Robb, Shelter's Chief Executive, added: "It is fantastic that so many of Britain's best-loved comedians have given up their time to take part in this exhibition. We hope it will raise important funds for Shelter's work helping the increasing numbers of people who will be facing homelessness this Christmas, something that sadly could happen to any one of us."

Photographer Paul Heneker explains: "Shelter has been a charity that I have followed and supported for many years - having a roof over our head is something that most of us take for granted. Funny Faces gives me the perfect opportunity to make the lives of those who are struggling to hold onto their home, a little easier."

You can find out more about the exhibition and see preview images of all 48 of the portraits on Paul's website: Heneker.com