More mystery 'Minions' appear painted under bridge

The colourful artwork is good for the area, said local resident Craig Simpson

More mystery "Minions" have appeared painted by an unknown artist under a motorway bridge, to the delight of residents.

An initial set of the yellow cartoon creations - featured in the Despicable Me movies - appeared last month under the Leeds Liverpool canal just past Rosegrove, close to Hapton in Burnley, Lancashire.

A further nine have now emerged on the bridge stanchions with the identity of the artist, who locals have dubbed "the Burnley Banksy", yet to come forward.

Craig Simpson, who lives nearby, said the striking artwork "brings a smile to my face" and he hopes the Minions stay. However, National Highways said the designs could impede inspections of the structures.

Mr Simpson said he often cycles past the structures and thinks they are fantastic.

"They brighten up an otherwise dull bit of concrete," he said.

"It is a lot better than your average destructive graffiti. There's a bit of art to it and kids will enjoy it."

He said the Minions have been discussed on social media and "nobody has a bad word to say about them".

The 63-year-old added: "It's good for the local area. Let's hope they stay."

Pete Storozuk and Julie Robinson said the Minions "brighten up the place"

Julie Robinson and Pete Storozuk are also impressed.

"They're really good," Ms Robinson said.

"We come past quite a lot and one day they weren't there and the the next day they were. It's so amazing."

The 69-year-old said the mysterious artist was talented and should come forward while Mr Storozuk said: "It brightens up the place."

He said the artist was a "quick worker" although it was a "shame it wasn't [the real] Banksy".

Eric and Lindsey Kerr said they love the Minion-style structures

Eric and Lindsey Kerr often walk their dogs past the bridge and agreed the art was "brilliant".

Mrs Kerr, 61, said: "They make people smile. They're a great idea. We love them."

Mr Kerr, 64, added: "It's better than just looking at just concrete."

However, National Highways was not as fast to compliment the Minions.

In a statement, it said: "While this kind of graffiti might seem entertaining, it does impede our ability to fully inspect the structures for any maintenance issues.

"Removing the paint will also cost time and money - resources which would otherwise be spent on improving drivers' motorway journeys."