Leeds United themed art which was vandalised around Burley will officially be restored – after Leeds United commissioned the West Leeds artist dubbed the “Burley Banksy” to carry out the work, writes Keely Bannister.
The artist, real name Andy McVeigh, is well known for his creations which can be seen on electric and broadband boxes around the streets of Burley and Kirkstall.
Recently Mr McVeigh’s Leeds United themed art has been painted over ruining the artwork, with a group calling themselves Leeds Residents Against Graffiti emailing the Yorkshire Evening Post to claim credit.
Now, in conjunction with Virgin Media who own the boxes and Leeds City Council as well as Leeds United, Andy will be recreating his artwork.
In a statement announcing the collaboration, Kirkstall councillor Fiona Venner said:
“Andy is a talented artist and over the years his work in my ward of Kirkstall has become much loved by the local community.
“In Kirkstall and Burley his art brightened up previously graffiti blighted boxes and has actually deterred further graffiti.
“The community were shocked to see that his work around Elland Road was covered up, so we are really pleased that the Council, Leeds United and Virgin have come together to give him the opportunity to restore it.
“Leeds fans have shown fantastic support for Andy and his art and it will be great to see it on display again as we celebrate the club’s centenary this season.”
Leeds United Chief Executive, Angus Kinnear, added:
“The art displayed by Andy is important to Leeds United and the city. The designs depict some of the most impactful players and kits from our 100 year history and you can see from our supporters’ reaction to the recent damage caused to the cabinets and how much it means to us all.
“Now that all parties have formally agreed to commission Andy’s work, his art should be protected for everyone to enjoy.”
As previously reported in the Dispatch, Mr McVeigh and his son Danny have also been invited to watch Leeds United at Elland Road with tickets being provided to them for this Saturday’s Derby game.