A VIBRANT and unconventional mural decorated with runaway pigs, Roman soldiers and herds of cattle has been painted to celebrate the colourful history of Brook Street.

For just under two months artist Gary Drostle painstakingly painted scenes from across the decades to form a lasting tribute to the vibrant history of Brook Street.

On Monday the mural, which covers the gable end of Brook Street’s famous comic shop, was unveiled after the artist and a team of painters brushed on the final lick of paint last week.

Shop owners and residents who have watched the plain wall transformed into the giant painting said that they hoped the mural would put Brook Street on the map.

Jan Yarasir, whose Brook Street Café looks out onto the painting, said: “I am delighted the painting is finished. It will be such a wonderful thing to have in Brook Street.

“I hope the mural will become an attraction in itself, and people will visit Brook Street to see it.”

Artist Gary Drostle, who won a competition to design and paint the mural, spent weeks asking people for their memories of the street.

Teenager Ben Ditchfield, of Flint, was painted into the mural after playing his guitar on the roof of the comic shop at the street’s carnival in May.

The proud mother of the 19-year-old musician, Janette Ditchfield, said: “It is fantastic that Ben has become a part of history because of his musical talents.

“It was only a stunt and now it will be seen by everyone who walks down the street.”

Cllr David Robinson said: “Brook Street has a rich history and, I believe, a bright future.

“Gary Drostle's mural captures the colour and life of the street and I am sure it will become a must-see attraction.”