Youngsters have helped create a huge mural that should entice droves of children to visit a library.

A spectacular three-panel mural has been erected on to the facade of Fryerns library in Whitmore Way, Basildon, thanks to the efforts of an art group and support from Essex and Basildon councils.

Work of art - Mike Harrington and Robert Worley with the mural Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

Support Through Art (Start) organised three workshops with 15 youngsters - some with troubled pasts - to get ideas for the murals, which should make the library a more welcoming place.

Mike Harrington, who helps run Start, said: "The murals shout out 'Don't walk past, come inside'. "They are really bright and should attract young people to the library.

"The designs are like controlled graffiti, on the theme of communication, with arrows pointing to the door of the library."

After the youngsters had come up with the ideas, Start artists got together with Basildon library services to turn the ideas into reality.

Essex County Council provided a £3,000 grant for the project and Basildon Council provided help with materials, transport and a room.

To get involved with Start or find out more about the the group, which has organised several projects and workshops, contact Mr Harrington on 01268 410214.

Published Wednesday, January 22, 2003

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