A unique new mural has been unveiled in the Church Street Arcade within Ballymena town centre.

This project was developed as part of the Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme. This programme is funded by the Department for Communities, Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the Department for Infrastructure, and administered by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

Local freelance artist and designer Leanne McClelland brought the mural to life, working with the Ballymena Business Investment District (BID) and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to commentate one of the last remaining seven towers of Ballymena, The Old Parish Church.

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The design of the mural is truly unique, with Leanne taking inspiration from the church grounds, including the plants, types of trees, colours, and birds that visited. Her symmetrical trademark design is centred around the parish church tower, with the Ballymena seven towers shield image behind. The design also includes the magpie - a symbol of wisdom and joy - which is regularly seen in the church grounds.

The original Church Tower and graveyard can still be seen on Church Street and plans are currently underway to open up this historical site to the public. The Old Parish Church was replaced by St Patricks Church, the main Parish Church in Ballymena's Anglican parish of Kirkinriola and Ballyclug in 1855 and is located on Castle Street.

James Perry, Parish representative, who liaised with Council on the production of a Tercentenary Guide entitled 'If These Stones Could Talk', commented: "Congratulations to BID and Council on taking the initiative to have a commemorative mural in Church Street Arcade. The striking image created by Leanne is an excellent way in which to draw attention to this important aspect of the history of Church Street."