Clapton Park Children's Centre fence transformed by mural

The vibrant artwork now graces the fence of Clapton Park Children’s Centre, enhancing the approach to the Daubeney Road footbridge, a vital link between Lower Clapton and Hackney Marshes.

This 22 by 2-metre mural, crowdfunded by the community and painted by Hackney artist Claire Ward-Thornton of Art Hoppers, captures a child's eye view of a buzzing Hackney meadow.

The mural was inspired by the Hackney Buzzline, a project of the local environmental charity ecoACTIVE.

Its depiction of bees, moths, and butterflies celebrates Hackney's open spaces and community spirit, transforming a neglected corner of Clapton.

The project organiser, Adam Cochrane, along with ecoACTIVE, also rejuvenated the neighbouring flower bed.

It's now a lively border of pollinator-friendly shrubs enclosed with a low woven-willow fence.

Mr Cochrane said: "What started as an eyesore has become a celebration of Hackney’s nature and community spirit.

"The mural is a bright invitation into the Marshes and a daily reminder for the children of Clapton Park that nature is on their doorstep.

"Thank you to everyone who donated, and to artist Claire Ward-Thornton and ecoACTIVE for bringing this to life."

The project took shape with the help of Clapton Park Children’s Centre and Hackney Forest School.

Local families shared their ideas during a consultation session and volunteered to help apply the base coats.

Gerry Tissier, ecoACTIVE Hackney Buzzline manager and community ecologist, said: "Claire’s magnificent mural has become the centrepiece of our new nature gateway linking Hackney Marshes and Homerton.

"The project has been a true community endeavour, and Claire’s work captures its spirit perfectly."

Ms Ward-Thornton added: "It's really rewarding to engage in a project that local people want to happen and drive forward with a strong sense of identity and purpose."

Hackney Forest School lead Lauren Mills said: "It has been a pleasure to be a part of this project.

"Our fence now looks vibrant and alive.

"What a fantastic way to show everyone that nature is all around us, especially right on our doorstep."