Volunteer artists transform Thorne Lock with community canal mural

In just two months, a once overgrown, scruffy area beside the lock keeper's cabin has been transformed into an attractive space for visitors. Volunteers cleared weeds and brambles to create a garden area and install a welcome sign before deciding to add a mural to celebrate the local area.

Work began at the end of April, led by local volunteer artist Kate Rhodes and volunteer lock keeper and ex-boater Jan Miller, who previously created a popular heritage-themed mural at Doncaster Lock.

The mural features recognisable landmarks and locations from Thorne and Moorends to encourage local people to reminisce, share memories and celebrate the area's heritage. Using reference photographs gathered from across the community, Kate spent four weeks bringing the artwork to life, volunteering several days each week. Jan helped add many of the finer details, with the mural completed at the end of May.

Paul Tonge, our volunteer leader, said: "It's been brilliant to see Kate turn a collection of photographs into this marvellous artwork. It's really transformed the area and has already become a talking point locally, with visitors regularly stopping to admire the mural, identify familiar scenes and share stories about the places featured."

Paul added: "Volunteer-led projects like this can really enhance local waterways, create community pride and provide lasting enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. There are many ways to get involved with our charity and we'd love to hear from anyone interested."

Kate and Jan's latest creation follows the success of their large-scale mural at Doncaster Lock, which celebrated the city's rich heritage and received widespread praise from local residents and visitors. The pair have once again used their creativity and passion for the waterways to create an artwork that reflects the character and history of the local community.