A mural of Queen Elizabeth II which was defaced by vandals in a Gateshead park has now been restored.
The artwork celebrating the life of the Queen in Crawcrook Park was damaged in late October last year. The portrait, also displaying the dates of the late monarch's reign, was discovered covered in grey paint.
Workers at the park said they were "deeply disappointed" at seeing the criminal damage and described it as a "truly vile act".
Read More: Whitley Bay residents up in arms at proposed changes to "community centre on wheels"
Several residents expressed their anger and frustration online, calling the act "absolutely shocking" on the park's Facebook page. Work has been ongoing to replace the mural, on the park's pavilion, with the finishing touches now completed for the new design.
The artwork now features a painting of a crown on a black background in honour of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.
Laura Clark, a trustee of Our Villages, the charity in charge of the green space, said: “Following the damage to the original Jubilee mural the Our Villages trustees are really pleased with the new replacement artwork. Our charity will also be working with the graffiti artist to run some graffiti workshops for local children and teenagers again this year.“
Our Villages also encourage litter-picking groups in and around Crawcrook in an effort to keep the area clean. Crawcrook Park is also set to host its annual fair on August 5, 2023.
Read More:
- 'Bigger, better, and bolder' – Michael Gove's promise as £4.2bn North East devolution deal is signed
- Tyne Bridge restoration cost worries mount after report reveals true state of North East icon's disrepair
- First new Tyne and Wear Metro train hit by 'technical glitch' that halts journey to North East again
- Race to become first North East mayor kicks off as police commissioner enters Labour Party battle
- What comes next in Gateshead leisure centres saga after council presses pause on closure plans
