Delight is brewing as The Tour of Britain is set to be coming through Kidwelly on September 2nd. This is an amazing opportunity to showcase Kidwelly for the historical town that it is, not only to the thousands of cyclists and spectators passing through but nationally through local media coverage.
The community has been working in unison to come up with creative ideas to brighten up the town in preparation. This includes large land art run by ‘team cat’ which will be seen from aerial footage. Also various buskers, pop up food stalls by ‘Bwyd’ and the local panto ‘K.A.M.P.S’ will be dressing up as Cinderella for their forthcoming shows with local businesses contributing in various ways.
The West Wales Chronicle were lucky enough to correspond with the genius Kidwelly gent behind the unique land art. Local man Luke Angus Thomas came up with the varied design of the signature cat and it was quite a family venture as Luke’s parents painted the artwork.
Luke has been delighted that him and his mother Debbie have been offered a free cooked breakfast by way of thanks from nearby cafe establishment; Time For Tea. The local support is vast and it’s hoped from residents and supporters that the artwork will stay. It’s certainly a hot topic in Kidwelly currently and has placed it straight on the map for The Tour Of Britain thanks to Luke who resides in Kidwelly.
Designer Luke Angus Thomas told The West Wales Chronicle:
“It was suggested to decorate the boarded up windows of the old grade 2 listed town hall which has been unused for the last twenty years approximately. Its a beautiful Gothic building which is a key feature to the high street, however it’s not looking its best.
“I came up with a simple mural design based on the signature Kidwelly black cat, which is the running theme for the occasion. Legend has it that when the villagers returned after the plague this was the only living creature seen in the abandoned town.
“The mural proposal was met with great enthusiasm by the community and everyone has been so supportive. There has been a strong community drive behind this which is so good to see, such as Travis Perkins donating the boards. Someone kindly provided the funds for the paint and various others including the council who have offered their help in one way or another and not forgetting my parents who have also help me to decorate the boards.
“The murals have now been completed ready for installation and the response has been overwhelming. Not only will they enhance the building but the overall streetscape for tourists and locals alike. Street art is important as it inspires people and gives a good impression of our town and I hope it continues. Being creative is a passion and an absolute pleasure to share.”
Keep an eye out for this unique artwork that is most certainly pleasing to the eye and just unforgettable!
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