Former Webster’s Garage will be screened by a giant mural

WORK is finally set to start on a major facelift for Axminster’s biggest town centre eyesore.

Preparations are under way for a giant mural to mask the front of the derelict former Webster’s Garage

Axminster Arts, which is masterminding the project, hopes to have it completed in time for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations June.

Just another �500 is needed to meet the �5,000 cost of the installation, and project co-ordinator Tim Leat says he is hopeful this can be raised to complete the work on time.

He said: “We very much want the project to be finished in time for the Jubilee but if this is not possible then at least the majority of the work will be done by then.”

The first phase of the operation will see local building firm A J Proctor Ltd put up a temporary structure around the garage frontage and the former Busy Bee Shop next door, using materials supplied by Bradford’s – another of the projects generous donors.

In the meantime, Axminster Arts have set up a project HQ in part of Pulman’s House, next to Lemon Place, in Lyme Road, courtesy of estate agent and chamber of trade chairman Shane Morgan.

Mr Leat said they were grateful to him and a host of local people and businesses for supporting the project, with donations large and small. Mayor Andrew Moulding had given a considerable sum through his locality budget.

“Names of all supporters will be prominently displayed both at the Webster’s site and at Pulman’s House and it is not too late for an individual or business to be added,” he said.

Once the boards are up artist Steve Fisher, who has designed the colourful mural, will invite the public to help him work on the picture.

To offer help towards the project call Tim Leat on 01297 35187 or e-mail at Norrlet@aol.com