Railway bridges have been transformed into pieces of art thanks to partnerships between Network Rail and community groups.

The lastest is the bridge on the corner of New Springs Gardens Walk in Vauxhall, which now pays homage to a balloon record that stood between 1836 – 1914.

Charles Green, a professional balloonist, flew 480 miles from Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens in London to Nassau, Germany in the balloon Royal Vauxhall.

The mural was painted by Nerone, a street artist and walls with his work can be seen in many places including Paris, New York, Bangkok and Marrakech.

Nerone said: “I’ve really enjoyed working in Vauxhall and it has been a great experience despite the difficult weather conditions. Many people were curious to discover the new addition in the neighbourhood and congratulated me while I was painting. Compliments are always appreciated and I’m getting ready to paint more art in this amazing borough.”

Bernard Collier, chief executive at Vauxhall One said: “People have been coming to Vauxhall to have fun since 1661. The mural celebrates Charles Green’s Balloon rides of the 1800s, but also Vauxhall’s culture of fun and embracing of difference. Vauxhall One is supporting this culture as the area develops and changes.“

Robert Hodgkinson, franchise & access manager at Network Rail said: “I am delighted we have finally created this fantastic mural in Vauxhall that represents both the historical accomplishments of the past, and the diverse, multi-cultural heartbeat, now so warmly felt in the area.  The design, artistic talent and endeavour that has gone into making this artwork such a poignant but celebratory creation, establishes a standard for future murals and artwork still to come. I would like to thank Vauxhall One and colleagues at Network Rail, for their help in making this such a great success.”

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