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A new Chartist mural in Blackwood town centre has been completed, remembering a key movement which helped bring about political change in the UK.

The work has been painted onto the side of the Flourmill pub, which sits on Blackwood High Street.

Caerphilly County Borough Council worked with the manager and owner of the Flourmill building, with the mural itself completed by Andy O’Rourke of Malarky Arts.

The mural reflects the Chartist movement and the key point in history in November 1839, when thousands of working-class men from the South Wales Valleys, including a group from Blackwood led by Zephaniah Williams, marched on Newport.

The project was funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, which focuses on “fostering a sense of local pride and belonging”.

Jo Hillier-Raikes, principal officer for town centres, said: “Once again, we are absolutely delighted with the quality of work that Andy has delivered and the positive reaction from the public. 

“Andy has delivered similar projects for us in Bargoed, and he worked exceptionally hard to design a long-lasting and fitting testament to the Chartist movement, which was repeatedly highlighted as a desired theme in our discussions with stakeholders.

“It is anticipated that the artwork will instil a sense of pride amongst local residents, and we would encourage people to visit Blackwood to see this wonderful piece of artwork for themselves.”