The theme for the mural was Wakes Week - a holiday period in which factory towns would pack up and rush to Morecambe en masse, leaving industrial towns behind to find the beauty and healing powers of the seaside.

The design brings to life stories that were shared with us by locals; from the nights spent on the promenade roller skating, to visiting the swimming stadium to watch the Aqua Lovelies perform synchronised swimming, and jump from the high diving boards. We have also included illustrations of those who take solace from the health benefits of swimming in the bay today along with other references to the the town.

The words ‘A bay of big skies and shifting tides’ come from how the locals describe the bay themselves, and we found the words ‘come and be happy at Morecambe’ on a vintage postcard sent by holiday makers during the Wakes Weeks back to their friends/families in the Mill Towns.

The 180m2 mural itself was a joy to paint. The views from 15m up were incredible and we witnessed a few of the famous Morecambe sunsets whilst we were painting. We have never been to a more welcoming and friendly town - each day brought more smiling faces who shouted up their encouragement and we were brought many teas, coffees, ice creams and pints to keep us going. We even got a round of applause when we finished it!

Commissioned Deco Publique. Photos by Calum Lewis.