THE Mayor of Bury is hoping that a new installation will help raise more money for her charities.

The People’s Art wall has been put in place at the town hall and the Mayor, Councillor Dorothy Gunther believes it will help raise cash for her three charities during her term as the town’s number one citizen. Her charities are Bury Hospice, Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary and the RNLI.

Cllr Gunther helped launch the wall in partnership with her charity committee, local artist E. Anthony Orme and G J Plastics.

The wall is intended to be a permanent reminder of the businesses, voluntary groups and individuals that have raised much needed funds for the mayor’s chosen charities.

Cllr Gunther said: “For me, just two words describe the installation, which is both exquisite and amazing.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in making this happen and express my special appreciation to Karan Lee, the inspiration behind this fantastic idea; E. Anthony Orme for his brilliant creative talent; and Graham and Jeanette Croston at G J Plastics for their skill in manufacturing and installing the art wall.

“I have every confidence this unique artwork will be a big success.”

Chris Orme, son of E. Anthony Orme, said: “I’ve grown up working with my father and I’m proud to see his work on the wall at Bury Town Hall. And for it to be used to raise funds for the important work of local charities is doubly heart-warming.”

Graham Croston director at G J Plastics said: “We are pleased to have been involved in a project that demonstrates the long tradition of Bury businesses and individuals supporting the mayor’s charities.

“As a local business in Radcliffe we’re very proud to be part of the Bury community and we hope that Bury people will get behind and support The People’s Art.”

The artwork incorporates the Bury Coat of Arms containing aspects and symbols from all six of the borough’s towns (Bury, Prestwich, Radcliffe, Ramsbottom, Tottington and Whitefield) and also six large shields, one for each of the initial benefactors.

So far the art wall has been supported by 21 organisations and individuals, which also include: Karen Lee, Barclays Bank (Bury branch), Paul and Ben Fox, 207 Field Hospital, East Lancashire Masonic Charity, Merje, Pixelwave Creative, Delta Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Armaan Restaurant, Vibe Gym, Made in Bury, Best of Bury, Marie Farnworth, Bury Means Business, Mill Gate Shopping Centre, Lifestyle Sales and Lettings Ltd and Bentley Motors Ltd.

To arrange to view the art wall and discuss adding a shield in the name of a business, community group or individual, contact the mayor’s office on 0161 253 5117.