Some of Beeston's biggest names and heroes are celebrated by colourful murals in the town. Fashion designer Sir Paul Smith, the late actor Richard Beckinsale and soul singer Edwin Starr have been immortalised on the walls of buildings in the town, alongside a special tribute to local youngster Owen Jenkins, the 12-year-old who drowned trying to save two girls in Beeston Weir.
Work is now under way to create a new piece of artwork dedicated to another local legend, Sid Standard. He owned a bike shop in Chilwell Road and devoted 50 years of his life to cycling. The mural will be Beeston Street Art's 47th piece.
The 73-year-old inspired countless youngsters to take up cycling by taking them out every Sunday on their bikes. Many went on to become international road and track riders and protégé, Bryan Steel, won an Olympic bronze medal in 2000..
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Mr Standard was still a keen cyclist in his 70s but tragedy struck in 2003, when he died after colliding with a tractor at Shottle, Derbyshire. Hundreds of cyclists rode past his former shop on the day of his funeral as a mark of respect.
There's a tram bearing Mr Standard's name and a blue plaque honours the local hero outside his former bike shop. But for years his family have been hoping to get a mural in the town as a fitting tribute to the father-of-three.
Now their dream is about to come true with the help of street artist Buber Nebz, who has set to work on the side wall of Admiral Casino in High Road. The completion date is due to be Saturday September 10, the 19th anniversary of Mr Standard's death.
Mr Standard's daughter Jill Clarke lives in Radcliffe-on-Trent and his son David Standard is in Orston. Their sister Trinity Hughes lives in The Netherlands. They said: "We are so proud and thankful to everyone concerned with this wonderful tribute to cycling which was our dad's passion but to our dad Sid too.
"His lifelong contribution to the world of cycling by introducing youngsters, motivating and coaching anyone and everyone is legendary. We celebrate his life along with everyone who knew and remembers him and look forward to seeing how his passion is depicted."
Jeanie O'Shea, of Beeston Street Art, said: "It’s a pleasure to arrange this commission for Beeston’s cycling fraternity here. Buber Nebz’ artwork is a stunning reminder of the pleasure of this pastime, which is obviously so good for our health and the planet. I hope it encourages more people to get on their bikes."
Beeston Cycling Club and Beeston Road Club have made it possible by sponsoring the artwork.
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