A MARVELLOUS new mural is now adorning Fishguard's Theatr Gwaun reflecting the town's folklore, maritime past and historical landmarks.

The mural was commissioned by Ancient Connections, a cross-border arts, heritage and tourism project, linking north Pembrokeshire and north Wexford, funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The mural was created by Grant Radford who engaged with local schools and community groups linked to Theatr Gwaun before coming up with a draft design. This was then further developed through dialogue with the team at Ancient Connections, Theatr Gwaun staff and a public engagement session.

The mural boasts a rich dark blue background, with black and gold images over the top. A silhouette of black birds flocking across the building is layered over with sparkling gold creatures of the sea and figures from folklore. Another layer of yellow stars presents these figures as constellations, paying homage to the navigation of seas using star maps. An anchor in the bottom right hand corner references Fishguard and Goodwicks' rich maritime history and trade.

A story key at eye level presents a series of smaller images that touch on significant stories and heritage of the local area, as well as links to Wexford across the water.

Motifs include the Fishguard Herring – as local people were referred to due to their dependence on herring fishing. A coiled rope references the traditional ropemaking trade in Fishguard , the enormous whale in the main mural and in the motif points to the presence of whales in the Irish Sea, as well as the famous film of Moby Dick, which was shot in the Fishguard. A light aeroplane recalls the first flight over the Irish Sea from Goodwick to Enniscorthy in 1912 and a galleon conjures up the infamous pirate Barti Ddi who hailed from Puncheston.

The mural has had a very positive reception from the people of Fishguard and Goodwick.

"It's fabulous," said one local resident. "Relevant, bold yet delicate. I love how the different colours create depth and fluidity and the references to nature."

Ruth Jones, Project Officer for Ancient Connections added:

"We are delighted with the mural, it is stylish and striking, and at the same time speaks of movement and migration across the Irish Sea, which are key themes for Ancient Connections. We hope that it will become a focus point for the twin towns to evoke local heritage and folklore, as well as give visitors an insight to the rich history of this area".