AFTER two years of hard work by more than 250 people, a giant mural has been unveiled to brighten up a Blackburn neighbourhood.

The striking 130ft painting, called That’s Life, was launched with a spectacular music and dance show outside Bangor Street community centre.

Organisers dubbed it ‘probably the largest mural in England’.

Julian Dunn, of local charity Action Factory Community Arts, said: “This will bring pleasure to people for generations to come.”

Contributions to the mural, which is on display on the side of the sports pitches in Norwich Street, came from youngsters at next-door Brookhouse Primary School and the Saheli Girls Group, which is based at Bangor Street.

Various local asylum-seekers and homeless people’s groups were also involved.

Their sketches and paintings have been compiled into the 32-panel acrylic mural, which used anti-graffiti paint, by lead artist Jackie Kearney.

She said: “The aim was to lighten up a sunny street that was looking a mess – and just to have fun while showing the diversity of the world we live in.

“It brings people together, and gives a sense of ownership to everyone who was involved.”

The Action Factory secured £11,000 to pay for the project with three successful funding bids.

The mural was opened by deputy mayor Karimeh Foster on Friday afternoon alongside contemporary dance shows from youngsters who are also involved with Action Factory, which is based in Clarendon Street.