YOUNG people from Bemerton Heath got creative to brighten up their community and create a mural in memory of teenager Ben Giorgi.

They joined together last week to create the street art mural at the Compound in Gainsborough Close.

The idea to create the mural was inspired by friends of the 18-year-old who took his own life last year. They wanted to create something positive as a memorial to him.

The mural depicts comic book superheroes and computer game characters like Mario and is part of a wider plan to redevelop the area.

Ingrid Walker, Rise:61’s resident artist, who led the project, said: “It was great to see so many members of the community joining together to create something colourful and vibrant and bring something positive out of such a tragedy.

"I myself was inspired by it and am looking forward to helping these talented youngsters create another one.”

Youngsters came up with ideas for the mural over four, two hour sessions in March which were made possible by local youth charity Rise:61 in partnership with the resident engagement team from Wiltshire Council.

Elise Hurst, aged 11, who took part in both the planning and painting sessions said she was “proud to be making Bemerton Heath an even better place to live”.

The mural has received positive reactions from local residents who have praised the idea.

Volunteers helping bring the mural project to fruition ranged from ages six up to 60.

Robin Imeson, of Rise:61, added: "Rise:61 would like to thank Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council for their support of the project as well as the MD Group, Jewsons and Sydenhams who helped supply the paint and paintbrushes, and also all the young people and residents who gave up their time to make a difference in this tight-knit community."

Rise: 61 is a charity set up by local residents from Bemerton Heath to help improve and develop the community and support activities.