A bold new chapter in Runcorn’s cultural story will be unveiled this summer as the town comes together to celebrate the completion of the Dukesfield Viaduct Murals – a series of large-scale public artworks transforming the iconic railway pillars beneath the Silver Jubilee Bridge.
The free community celebration on Saturday 26th July 2025 1- 5pm, invites locals and visitors to explore this new outdoor gallery, join creative activities, and discover the powerful local history behind each mural.
Highlights include:
- Mini mural-making workshops inspired by the new artworks
- Guided tours sharing the stories behind each mural
- Circus Skills inspired by the Pubs & Theatres Mural
- Drop in to hear the history of the murals at Society Taprooms with Runcorn & District Historical Society
- A visit to All Saints Church to see the new Æthelflæd stained glass window
- Refreshments and community updates at the Buddhist Peace Garden
- An evening celebration at Society Taprooms’ Hip Hop Night
The project delivered by Reconnecting Runcorn, Hazlehurst Studios, and partners—is a celebration of Runcorn’s people and past, brought to life by world-renowned muralists Liam Bononi and Aylo Nomad. The artworks interpret four powerful stories from local history:
- Æthelflæd, 915 AD
- The Suffragettes and the 1913 Bombing
- The Pubs & Theatres of Old Runcorn
- The Shaws, 1881
“More than just murals, these works are a public archive in paint,” said Claire Pitt, Director of Hazlehurst Studios. “They reflect the soul of Runcorn – its stories, its creativity, and its community spirit.”
“In big cities, people are used to murals and often walk by without much interest,” said Aylo Nomad. “Runcorn was different, people stopped to talk, asked questions, and shared stories. It really felt like the murals meant something to the community.” “It’s important to see their stories coming to life,” added Liam Bononi.
This event also ties in with the launch of Unlock Runcorn’s new boats Aethel’ and ‘Fraeda’. on the canal from 1pm – 5pm. The boats name is a tribute to the town’s legendary founder and warrior, Æthelflæd who is also a part of the mural project. The 26th July event is the true representation of what Reconnecting Runcorn means to the community, bringing together and celebrating three of the exciting projects that have been brought to life giving the community a taste of what we can expect as the programme continues to develop.
This project is part of Reconnecting Runcorn, one of 15 initiatives funded by the UK Government’s £23.6m Towns Fund, aiming to transform the town through improved public spaces, cultural investment, and community-led regeneration.