A “permanent reminder of this moment in time” has been unveiled.

MP Peter Kyle officially opened the colourful artwork in Wish Park, Hove, yesterday.

It pays tribute to the hard work of NHS staff during the coronavirus pandemic.

And despite the heavy rain, artists, fundraisers and members of the community turned out in force to be part of the unveiling.

The mural, designed and created by Red Herring artist group, includes a tribute to the NHS as well as references to Wish Park’s history.

Mr Kyle, MP for Hove and Portslade, began proceedings by cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

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He said: “It’s been a lovely experience being here but also seeing the fruits of what a community can achieve.

“It’s going to be the first memorial to this period that we’re living through at the moment because it also celebrates the NHS and public sector workers, from gardeners through to health workers.

“It will be a permanent reminder of this particular moment in time which I know a lot of us will find very important to reflect on in the years ahead.”

Hove resident David Wicken led the push for the rejuvenation of the electricity substation in the park and began a GoFundMe page that raised more than £2,000 to fund the project.

Mr Wicken said: “It’s amazing how it’s all come together.

“It’s a huge relief that it’s worked out so successfully and I’m so proud that we brought together so many members of our community.

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“People have come forward and offered so much help, which has made my job so much easier than it otherwise would have been.”

Power company UK Power Networks gave the community permission to extend the mural on to the remainder of the substation.

Jeremy Wright, head of network operations for South East region at UK Power Networks, said, “It’s been really good, it’s been two years in the making, lots of support from our side and from the park as well, to realise a long-standing dream.

“It’s good to utilise one of the older buildings that can be shared and liked by everyone so it’s really good and a positive thing for the local community.”

Work on the next stage of the mural is set to begin in the spring.

Mr Wicken said: “I’m so proud and I’m looking forward to next year painting the other wall.”