The National Trust for Scotland transformed an old graffiti eyesore into a colourful kingfisher mural after commissioning a street artist from North Ayrshire to cover it up.

The kingfisher bird can usually be spotted nesting alongside the River Esk during the summer months.

The National Trust for Scotland approached artist, Tragic O’Hara, to create artwork that could be enjoyed by walkers and cyclists on the Esk Walkway.

Artist Tragic O’Hara, added: “When the team at the Trust got in touch, I was really excited to hear that they wanted me to cover up some graffiti tags with artwork.

“I work a lot with youth groups, encouraging young people to develop their graffiti skills as art.

“I hope seeing this wall will inspire youngsters to be more creative.

“The path along the river is buzzing with nature and greenery, and I was careful to make sure the kingfisher blended in with its surroundings.

“It took me a total of eight hours to complete and I’m really happy with how it has turned out.

“It was great to get positive feedback from people passing by - it was just a shame that we didn’t spot any actual kingfishers on the day.”

Claire Grant, Operations Manager at Inveresk Gardens, said: “The Esk Walkway is a well-used path and with people enjoying their local outdoor spaces more than ever, we were conscious that the graffiti was a bit of an eyesore.

“Tragic O’Hara has covered it with bright graffiti-style art and we love that there’s a nod to the kingfisher – you’re lucky if you spot one along the river but they’re such a beautiful species.”

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