Paul Cullen attends official ceremony to celebrate ‘stunning’ mural

Work to create an eye-catching artwork of the Warrington Wolves legend began in April and was completed in May.

It is of Cullen celebrating during the final game at Wilderspool in 2003, and it has been painted on the side of The Kings Head pub, a stone’s throw from the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

It was painted by artist Anthony Turk, who wishes to be known as Pinkeye99 and previously painted the town’s famous Pink Eye art installation.

Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, he said: “I’m a little bit overwhelmed. I go to the gym, look to my left and see this image. It is a powerful image.

“It is essentially an abstract art installation. I never thought I would use those words in a sentence about my life and times playing and working for Warrington Rugby League Club.

“Tony always has been an absolutely fanatical Warrington rugby fan and a great Warringtonian. He cares, he cares about Warrington Rugby League Club, and he cares about art.

“Here, we celebrate three art forms. The photography of Mike Boden, who along with those at the Warrington Guardian has a history of capturing the right photo at the right time for the right reasons in the right place.

Paul and Anthony alongside Lyndsay Darbyshire, wife of Paul Darbyshire, who also features on the mural

“Also, the art of rugby in Warrington and what it means to the vast majority of us, and the art of street are in a mural. It is absolutely stunning.

“On a personal note, this is not about me and never has been. It captures a moment, and it captures my good friend Paul Darbyshire, with his wife Lyndsay and son Jack here today.

“The fact Paul is on and is no longer with us, it is so important we never forget, who played there, what we did, and what the club means to us all.

“The mural is about celebrating Wilderspool to the Halliwell Jones, from Wire to Wolves, the progression of the club, and to involve that in an art form is quite breathtaking.

“I’m humbled by the fact that we are the first one and overjoyed by the fact we won’t be the last.

“It is about an identity in Warrington, and Tony, you have captured it perfectly.

“I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of this from day one, and long may it continue.

“Hopefully there are hundreds more of these to come that celebrate all aspects of life in Warrington, the history of it, where we have been and where we are going to.”

Artist Anthony Turk and Wire legend Paul Cullen at the mural

Also speaking at the event was Paul Taylor, chair of Warrington Arts Council, who said: “This work is part of the Art and About project, and is the first of what we hope will many bringing people into the town.

“Thank you to all who made this happen.

“There is a lot going on in the town, and this is part of what we hope will be a walking trail increasing footfall, getting people out and ab out and showing what we have to offer.

“There is a butterfly at the top of the mural as we hope it will have a butterfly effect, and anyone with a building who wants to participate can get in touch.

Warrington BID added: “The choice of this iconic image not only honours Paul’s legacy, but also commemorates the historical significance of Wilderspool Stadium, which played a central role in Warrington rugby history before its demolition.

“Situated between the old stadium site and the current Halliwell Jones Stadium, the King’s Head pub has long been a hub for rugby enthusiasts, making it a fitting location for the mural.

“The project also pays tribute to former player and assistant coach Paul Darbyshire, who tragically passed away from motor neurone disease at the age of 41. Pictured is his wife Lindsay, who also features as part of the artwork.

“This mural not only enhances the visual appeal of our town, but also serves as a fantastic reminder of Warrington’s unrivalled passion for rugby league.”