Purley BID is excited to welcome new artwork to Purley town centre by esteemed artist, Lionel Stanhope. Based on the meaning of the word Purley, the mural is as a result of a collaboration between Purley BID and Network Rail who worked closely with the artist on the design.
Purley gets its name from the Anglo-Saxon word “Pirige“, meaning Pear Tree and the word “Leah” meaning Woodland Clearing. The town’s name means: “A woodland clearing where Pear trees grow”. This was altered and recorded at the start of the twelfth century as “Pirlee”.
Simon Cripps, CEO of Purley BID said: “Over the years the town has significantly changed and will continue to improve but this addition of the superb new artwork and the reinstatement of the Pear Tree in the town is a reflection on the history of the area.”
The mural, located on the railway arch on Godstone Road, really brightens up the area and is a celebration of Purley’s heritage that recognises the link with Purley to the railways. Purley still has the remains of the original Surrey Iron Railway dating back to 1802, located at the Rotary Field.
Catherine Garrad (pictured below with Lionel Stanhope), Engagement Manager for Purley BID said: “We are extremely delighted and proud of the art that, the very talented, Lionel Stanhope has created in Purley. The artwork is stunning and includes a pear tree that encompasses Purley’s history and heritage. Thank you to Eddie Burton from Network Rail for coordinating with us and procuring this exciting feature in Purley”.
Lionel Stanhope said: “I’m really happy with this mural and the pear tree is a nice touch which reflects the Anglo-Saxon roots of the town. I hope the locals appreciate it – I received positive comments from people passing by when I was working on it.”
