Community art project underway in Holywell

An award-winning street artist is calling on Eastbourne residents to help decide what wildlife should adorn a gate that has been defaced by graffiti.

The call comes from Sussex-based Sarah Gillings – also known as S.O.S – who has been commissioned by South East Water to paint a mural to revamp the site.

Members of the community are being urged to say what they would like painted on the gate at one of the water company’s sites in Holywell, East Sussex.

Darren Maxton, South East Water Operational Sites Manager, said: “Unfortunately, this gate has become a bit of an eyesore for the local community.

“Lots of people walk through this area so we wanted to do something to bring a smile as people go past.

“We’re open to any suggestions which match two of our ambitions – protecting the environment and conserving water – and cannot wait to see the end result.”

Sarah said: “I was thrilled to be contacted by South East Water for this commission.

“Because it’s an area of outstanding beauty I want to be inclusive of the local community by asking the public their favourite local species so I can paint the most popular.

“I also want to bring people’s attention to rare, local flora and fauna via the survey so I hope as many people as possible will include themselves in my creative process.”

Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Steve Wallis, added: “I am really looking forward to seeing the wonderful ideas the community can come up with. I know this painting will be a huge benefit to the local residents and passers-by so I am very excited to see the final outcome.