THE GATEWAY Garden in Okehampton is living up to its name, as plans for the new creative art project will certainly brighten up the town landscape.

Planned by the members of 'Growing Our Future' project, based at Okehampton College, a giant mural has been commissioned for the site on the corner of Exeter Road and East Street.

It is due to be unveiled on Saturday, June 16, and will depict a beautiful view of the hills of Dartmoor and promises to be a real focal point in the town.

A £6,000 grant has been secured from Dulux which will pay for paints and rollers, scaffolding, insurance and protective clothing.

Beth Hamer, the project co-ordinator for Growing Our Future, told the Times: 'We have been battling against the horrific weather this week when trying to prepare the site but it has still been fun!

'The mural will be on a really prominent site — it will brighten up the town when it's finished.

'There are two sets of traffic lights where motorists can see it and it will give people passing through an idea what Dartmoor is and what is close by to enjoy.

'One of the great things about this mural is that it came from a community response and through consulting local people — and not a piece of artwork that we just put in ourselves and think people would like.'

The design for the mural was created by Beth's dad Jim and will be painted by a number of artists.

Cllr Christine Marsh, who supports the project, said: 'It is an exciting and colourful project. Beth has worked very hard to secure a grant from Dulux. I welcome anything like this which will enhance the town and give the people who live there something to enjoy.'