Mural updated with mermaids, sealife and lifeboats

For years, a seafront mural featuring JMW Turner's painting of a ship - The Fighting Temeraire - has delighted residents at a Kent coastal town.

However, the work of art at The Leas in Minster gradually faded with time and the parish council decided it needed to be replaced.

Artists Julie Bradshaw and her daughter Anna Piles were commissioned to replace the mural with a nautical theme.

Bradshaw told the BBC completing the mural had been "joyous" and residents were thrilled with the transformation.

"People have told us they love it, and knowing our artwork has brought so much joy to the community means the world to us," she added.

The new mural features mermaids, octopus, an RNLI lifeboat, the bomb ship SS Richard Montgomery's masts and Sheppey wildlife.

Bradshaw said they began work on Monday and despite the high temperatures this week, the mother and daughter pressed on to bring the mural to life.

"We came prepared," she said. "We had shade, drinks and sun-protective clothing.

"People offered us drinks, sweets and ice cream. We are so touched by their kindness and support."

John Nurden, ward councillor, said: "Although the heritage of the island is very important to us, we wanted to remind visitors that this is still very much a seaside destination.

"Our award-winning beach and promenade are popular with everyone."

The mural also features Sir Robert de Shurland who rode his horse Grey Dolphin into the sea to seek the king's forgiveness after slaying a monk, according to legend.

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