A community-cherished bus shelter mural in Leegomery, which had only recently been restored by Telford & Wrekin Council after a previous act of vandalism, has been attacked again.
West Mercia Police has confirmed that the bus shelter on Granger Drive was defaced for a second time. This latest incident is believed to have occurred between 6 pm on Sunday, 7 December, and 8.45 am on Monday.
Council’s Swift Restoration Effort Undermined
The bus shelter, which features a poignant Remembrance-themed mural by local artist Neil Willis, was first targeted overnight on 21 November. The artwork, depicting the Union Jack flag, poppies, and soldiers, had generated widespread sadness when it was initially covered in white paint.
Telford & Wrekin Council acted quickly following the first attack. The Council Leader, Councillor Lee Carter, and teams worked with artist Neil Willis to restore the mural, ensuring the tribute to Remembrance Day could continue to be enjoyed by the community.
On 28 November, Councillor Carter had expressed his disappointment, saying: “We are deeply saddened to see such a meaningful piece of public art vandalised and unite in disappointment at this senseless act.”
He added: “Acts of vandalism will never overshadow the positive spirit of our borough. Instead, they remind us of the importance of standing together to celebrate and safeguard the things that make our communities special.”
A Repeated Disregard for Community Art
The second, swift act of vandalism has come as a fresh blow to residents and the Council, who have been championing public art across the borough. Telford’s bus stops have become a canvas for murals funded through Parish Councils and the Building Safer and Stronger Communities programme, with themes ranging from nature scenes to the 2025 Remembrance Day commemoration.
Councillor Paul Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities & Civic Pride, had previously commented on the value of the murals: “They are not just paintings on a bus stop, they are symbols of remembrance, creativity, and local pride. The swift action to restore the Leegomery mural demonstrates our commitment to protecting these community treasures.”
Police Appeal for Information
Officers are now appealing for information regarding both the previous incident last month and a second act of vandalism.
Anyone with details about the incident which occurred last month, or the paint attack between Sunday evening and Monday morning, is urged to contact the police. If you have information, please email the Leegomery Safer Neighbourhood Team via hl.snt@westmercia.police.uk.