New Bee Mural at Stroud Police Station Unveiled as Part of Stroud Paint Festival

The Stroud Police Station has unveiled a vibrant new mural of a bee as part of the annual Stroud Paint Festival, bringing a splash of colour and community spirit to the town. This initiative follows a successful collaboration between PCSOs, Town Council Community Development Officers and schools earlier this year, where 6 young people, with the help of local talented graff artist Lee Kirby of 'The Art of Third Eye,' transformed Beards Lane Bridge into a safer and more aesthetically pleasing area.

The Stroud Town Council, in collaboration with the community, had addressed concerns about Beards Lane Bridge, which was previously experiencing prolific tagging. The bridge's makeover has been widely praised, with the PCSOs noting that the youth-made mural has remained untouched since its creation, demonstrating the positive impact of community-led art projects.

Kate Montgomery, Deputy Town Clerk, who has helped find locations for the Paint Festival organisers, explained the significance of these initiatives: "The Beards Lane Bridge project showed us how art can transform spaces and bring the community together. When we were approached to support the Stroud Paint Festival, we saw another opportunity for local artists to create meaningful visual culture for the town."

The new bee mural at the police station's wash bay was created by renowned local artist Sarah Harris. The mural, featuring a detailed and vibrant depiction of a bee, is particularly fitting as it coincides with DEFRA's 'Bee's Needs Week', running from July 8th to 14th. This national campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators and share practical actions that everyone can take to help bees and other pollinators thrive. As the world's first Bee Guardian Town in 2011, Stroud is known for raising awareness for Bees.

"The wash bay was chosen because it faces the road and already had a mural, although it was looking very tired and unloved," said PCSO Amy Webb. "After discussions with the relevant parties, we agreed it was the perfect spot for a fresh, new mural."

PCSO Webb shared why the police officers were eager to get involved in the community-led Paint Festival: "We saw the positive impact the Beards Lane Bridge project had on the community and wanted to be a part of something similar. Art has the power to bring people together, and by participating in the Stroud Paint Festival, we aimed to strengthen our connection with the community and promote a sense of pride and safety in our public spaces."

Sarah Harris, the artist behind the new mural, expressed her excitement about participating in the festival and contributing to the town's arts culture.

The Stroud Paint Festival hopes to run again next year, turning public spaces into canvases that engage and inspire residents and visitors alike. The new bee mural at Stroud Police Station stands as a testament to the power of art in fostering community spirit and raising awareness about important environmental issues.