Incredible pictures of Aurora Borealis over skies of Whitby captured overnight as residents share rare sight

Captured on the pier by photographer Charlotte Graham, the rare sight of the Northern Lights being seen from the UK has got everyone talking on social media.

According to publication Space, the northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are beautiful dancing waves of light that have captivated people for millennia. But for all its beauty, this spectacular light show is a rather violent event.

Energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from the onslaught.

“Well I shall not forget that for a long time", Charlotte tweeted.

Pictures from towns and cities across Yorkshire have also been shared by residents who stayed awake into the early hours for the chance to capture the rare images.

One said: “I was planning to go to Iceland but don’t need to now, they are on our doorstep!”

Another added: “One of the most amazing things I have ever seen. Well worth the tiredness today.”