First panels of a giant mural are put in place at the derelict former Websters Garage in Axminster

Plans to give one of Axminster’s biggest eyesores a colourful facelift are finally taking shape.

The first panels of a giant mural – which will eventually cover the front of the derelict former Websters Garage - were put up on Friday.

But Axminster Arts, which is organising the community project, say there will be more unavoidable delays before it can be completed.

Co-ordinator Tim Leat said: “Our artist Steve Fisher has spent untold hours on the representation of Webster’s Garage and the first part of the large mural of the town. He is a real perfectionist and has put so much detail into what he has done so far that, unfortunately, it has taken him a lot longer than we expected, to get this far.

“The fact that Steve has been in a lot of pain due to his need for an operation and has also been busy running the station caf� has also not helped.

“The run of wet weather also put back the start and affected the ability to work on some of the boards.

“Steve is now having to take a well deserved break following a hip replacement operation but is determined to get back into the swing of things as soon as possible.

“He plans to do some painting of further sections of the part already erected during his recovery. There are plans to add more detail to this section.”

During Mr Fisher’s absence members of Axminster Arts hope to undertake other work on the site.

In the meantime the team is having to vacate its temporary HQ at “Steve’s Studio”, kindly provided by Shane and Claire Morgan.

Mr Fisher has also thanked members of St John’s Cadets and other youngsters for their help.

* Once the project can recommence details of how to become involved will appear in The Herald. In the meantime to find out more about what is planned or make a comment people can contact Tim Leat on 01297 35187 or e-mail him at Norrlet@aol.com or visit the Arts Caf� in Church Street.