Mural for soldiers is showcased

A mural paying tribute to soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefield has been unveiled by a Black Country branch of the Royal British Legion.

It has been painted on a wall at the back of the Kingswinford headquarters in Summerhill by Matthew Pearson.

The 27-year-old approached members at the branch and offered to design and paint the mural, which took five months to complete.

It features giant, brightly-coloured red poppies alongside members of the armed forces.

Part-time shop worker Mr Pearson, of High Street, Pensnett, who studied fine art at Dudley College, said he was pleased with the finished painting, which he has signed and dated.

"I've had a lot of compliments, which is really nice.

When I'm not at work, I spend the rest of my time drawing and painting so it was nice to have a chance to work on a project like this," he said.

Branch secretary Fred Gorman said: "Matthew painstakingly created the mural and along with the efforts of the club committee and members who spent many hours on gardening duties around the car park, the result is a fitting tribute to the Royal British Legion's 90 years of service.

"It is also a tribute to those from the local area who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in various wars and conflicts around the globe."

Paint for the project came from the Brewers company in Brierley Hill which offered help with mixing colours and gave Mr Pearson a discount.