A MURAL depicting images of Altrincham’s most celebrated people and places - including Market Dave and VC hero Bill Speakman - is to be erected in the town centre.

The art work, created by artist Hazel Beresford and children from Broomwood’s G-Force charity, will be installed inside Altrincham Market Hall.

Altrincham-born Hazel said: “The mural is for the town and community. It represents the childrens’ home. If they can take pride in Altrincham and understand its importance they can own it and are less likely to detroy or mis-use it.”

The mural, which received a council donation for materials, will include an 8 x 4 ft picture of David O’Kell, known locally as Market Dave, aged 68, who was a regular sight on the town’s roads for just under half a century in his role as a rag and bone man.

He was found unconscious on Huxley Street last year and, after a stint in hospital, moved to a care home in St Helens.

Brother Maurice, 71, said: “He’s quietened down a lot and says thank you to people now! He still shouts and bawls sometimes but seems to be on the mend.

“We’ve kept his house in Broadheath if he ever comes back, which is doubtful.”

The brothers were raised on Rigby Street, which has since been pulled down, and attended Bradbury Secondary School on Stamford Park Road.

There will also be a portrait of Bill Speakman who was born in 1927 and received the Victoria Cross, the most prestigious award for gallantry, aged 24.

And there will be a picture of Chapel Street, which achieved extraordinary status when World War One broke out and 161 men from its 60 homes joined the army and King George V rewarded their valour by dubbing it the “bravest street in the country”.

Also featured are Moss Lane’s Alty FC, known as the Robins, who have the best FA Cup record of any non-league team.

The pieces were commissioned by Altrincham Market manager Paul Flannery and were made by young volunteers in the G-Force shop on George Street.

Paul Huxley, co-founder of G-Force, which works with young people and adults in disadvantaged Trafford communities, said: “The mural celebrates everything Altrincham has to be proud about.”

Executive councillor Mike Cornes said: “This is a great way of showcasing what Altrincham has to offer and giving the community a chance to have their input.”

What do you think about the mural and what would you add to it? Leave your comments below.