'Biddulph Banksy' helps restore arson-damaged wall

The mural was painted by artist Ethan Lemon

An artist who has painted all over the world has completed a mural of his home town at a community centre that was damaged in a suspected arson attack.

Ethan Lemon, dubbed the Biddulph Banksy by some, had help from the community in Biddulph to find historical photos which inspired the artwork celebrating the town's history.

The mural features a portrait of miner Claude Adams, who founded the Biddulph men's club at the site, as well as other miners from the town.

Biddulph Youth and Community Zone was attacked by vandals who set fire to a community garden outside the building 16 months ago.

Since the blaze, the local community has been working to repair the damage.

A photo of Malcolm Sword when he was younger was recreated as part of the mural

Resident Malcolm Sword is one of those who features in the mural, alongside others from the mining town.

He sent his photo in to The Zone when community leaders were drawing up designs for the mural and it was eventually used in the final artwork.

"It's going to be here for forever and a day, it's like the phoenix out of the ashes," Mr Sword said when asked what he thought about the mural.

Centre manager Antony Capostagno has been at the centre for nine years and was among the first on the scene after the arson.

"It feels like the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle has been finished," Mr Capostagno said.

He said he remembered when Mr Lemon used to attend the youth club as a child.

"He wanted to be let loose on that wall," Mr Capostagno added.

He said: "I'm immensely proud of Ethan, It's just amazing that he can put back into his community."