Children’s mural brightens up St Albans

Primary school children have helped community artist Audrey Montet create an eye-catching mural in a prime spot in St Albans. The pupils were involved in designing and painting the artwork on a hoarding at the former King Offa pub in the Cottonmill area. Audrey supervised pupils from nearby Mandeville Primary School as they drew pictures of landmark buildings, flowers and animals on the bright blue surface. Among the images they created was one of the Town Hall on St Peter’s Street which is being transformed into a museum and art gallery. They also painted the Verulamium Museum, Sopwell Nunnery, the Cathedral, a nature reserve and the houses opposite in Wallingford Walk. Pupils from St Peter’s Primary School also helped Audrey as did residents who were invited to take part during a community day. St Albans City and District Council commissioned the mural to brighten up the site for the enjoyment of residents and passers-by during building work. The King Offa is to be demolished with the site being developed into affordable homes. Audrey is based in St Albans where she runs her own company, Montet Designs. She said: “I was very impressed by the children’s efforts. “They threw themselves into the task with great energy and enthusiasm, showing considerable artistic talent. They also had a lot of fun.” Councillor Brian Ellis, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “The building work is likely to take a year or so. “It’s an important development as it will provide the City with some much-needed affordable homes. “The mural is a great idea as it gives the site a far more attractive and interesting appearance. I am pleased the children had an enjoyable time helping to create it.”