A Salford woman is fighting to save a mural outside the B’Hive Inn that she has dedicated to her late brother.
Chrissy Oxton is a resident at Charlestown and is a voice for many of those who want to prevent the mural from being demolished.
Before her brother’s death, Chrissy would visit him at the mural where he spent a lot of time when he was homeless. She has continued to go there since in memory of him.
Learning about the removal of the mural gave Chrissy a fighting chance to save what was left of the pub and the memory of her brother.
In her words: “I feel happiness in doing this even though it makes me remember my brother, this is how I want to keep him alive.”
Grafitti/mural artist, Evan Barlow recalled when he was offered the opportunity to capture Salford’s historic landmarks in the mural at the B’Hive Pub, Holland Street, five years ago.
He said: “I included many Lowry paintings references and the gas works buildings in the painting. The old Manchester United training ground on Whit Lane is heavily implied.
“I painted a modern Salford Quays which represented an optimist look into the future.”
After hearing Chrissy’s mission and sentiment to save the mural, Evan shared his own thoughts and appreciation for his work.
“To hear that the painting meant so much to the local people is quite endearing and heart warming. One of the best things about putting art in public places is that your paintings can bring people together.”
Pub landlord Alan Lindsey said: “It was an established community pub and it’s a shame it’s gone because it was never empty. It is a real loss to the people.
“The mural was a centre of attraction and without it, we would be losing another heritage of the city.”
With more efforts planned to contribute to saving the mural, Chrissy is confident the local community will support her in stopping its destruction.
Salford Councillor John Warmisham said: “I have been contacted by local residents to save the mural but we are struggling because of financial restraints.
“We want to support the local people and we will do what we can to help advise what’s right.”
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