A HUGE masterpiece depicting Preston's rich and varied heritage is set to go under the hammer - of demolition workers.

The mural, painted on temporary boarding in St George's Shopping Centre, Preston, during renovations is heading for the chop as part of the centre's refurbishment project.

But the decision has angered the Exhibition Society North West artists, who want the 20ft by 40ft masterpiece preserved.

Artist Fraser Gardiner said: "We spent hours completing the mural and are appalled that it is now going to disappear for ever from public view.

"It was envisaged that it would prove to be of interest to people visiting Preston for many years to come. Somewhere like the Railway Station would be an ideal location for it."

The artwork features people and buildings of Preston, from the old Town Hall before the great fire, to football legend Sir Tom Finney.

But, in the next few weeks, the Scene of Preston masterpiece will go the same way as the group's George and the Dragon mural, painted along Lune Street three years ago.

St George's centre manager Carol Lowde said: "It is painted on plaster board which is in sections. It cannot be taken down in one piece however hard we try.

"The artists came to us in the first place and asked if they could do the artwork and once agreeing, we paid them more than £500 for brushes and paint.

"They knew from the beginning that it would be knocked down.

"I am a Prestonian through and through and if I thought I could save it I would."

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