A STRIKING mural of a miner’s lamp on side of pub has become a big tourist draw for a former pit village.

The mural of a Davy Lamp at the Flass Inn in Ushaw Moor, County Durham, was commissioned from artist Lewis Hobson by the Ushaw Moor Action Group and Brandon and Byshottle Parish Council.

Councillor David Clegg said: “Lewis of Durham Spray Paints was looking for places to do murals.

“We carried out consultation in the village over what they would like to feature in the mural and we came up with the mining theme, being a former pit village.

He added: “We thought the Flass Inn would be a good location and spoke to the landlady Sarah Hopper who got in touch with the brewery to get permission.

“It has been massively well received in the village. I’ve never seen so many positive comments on social media.

“It has boosted the economy of the local pub and village as well, with people coming from throughout the region to have a look.”

Sarah said: "It was really is a prime spot, right in the centre of the village and everyone coming through has to go past it.

"The council saw the mural Lewis Hobson did in Sacriston and wanted to do something for our community. We have had loads of people come in. It's just nice to see something different."

She added: "When we posted it on Facebook the number of people responding was great. It is great to see the community spirit it generated."

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