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News • August 21st, 2026
|A vibrant new mural celebrating the heritage of Ossett has been officially unveiled, brightening up the wall of Richmond’s Butchers, a local landmark situated right opposite the Town Hall. The artwork, created by West Yorkshire artist Shiraaz Ali, is part of a larger initiative to engage the community and showcase the town's unique identity.
Mural Celebrates Heritage
The mural, which has been titled "Welcome to Ossett," aims to reflect the town's rich history, lively festivals, and the pride of its residents. It draws inspiration from various aspects of Ossett, including its colourful markets, the stunning stained-glass windows of the Town Hall, and local wildlife such as the peregrine falcon that can often be spotted at Trinity Church’s spire.
Cllr Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, expressed that this mural will be a lasting tribute to the town’s distinctive heritage:
“It is a piece of artwork which will be appreciated for years to come.”
Community Engagement
What makes this mural particularly special is the extensive involvement of the local community in its design. Over 400 residents participated in the project through public drop-in sessions and exhibitions held at Trinity Church and the Ossett Library. Shiraaz Ali also connected with younger residents by leading talks at Ossett Academy, ensuring that voices from all age groups were included in the mural's creation.
Artistic Vision
Shiraaz Ali shared his vision for the mural:
“'Welcome to Ossett' honours the history, festivities and patriotism of the town whilst celebrating its bright future. My role as the artist was to take inspiration from the people of Ossett to create a warm welcome into the town, make people feel proud of their home and bring smiles to daily life.”
The mural showcases various landmarks and themes that resonate with Ossett’s residents.
Technical Aspects of the Mural
The mural is not just a visual delight; it has also been crafted using high-quality materials. It has been digitally printed onto aluminium composite panels, which are known for their durability and vibrant colours. Local company Style – Signage, Graphics & Display, which has over 40 years of experience, was responsible for the fabrication of these panels. The design of the mural cleverly mimics the shape of the windows found in the Town Hall, adding an architectural connection to the artwork.
Local Business Support
Richmond’s Butchers has been a staple in the Ossett community since 1945, and the owner, Mr Richmond, expressed his pride in hosting this mural:
“We’re delighted our long-standing local business could be the site for this artwork, to help tell the story of our community and bring colour and pride to the local area."
This partnership between local businesses and artists highlights the collaborative spirit of Ossett.
Part of a Larger Initiative
This mural is part of the legacy of "Our Year - Wakefield District 2024," which aims to celebrate and enhance the cultural landscape of the region. It also falls under the ‘Crossings and Gateways’ programme, a project designed to create welcoming spaces in the community. The project has received generous support from Arts Council England and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, showcasing a commitment to the arts and cultural development in the area.
As the new mural graces the streets of Ossett, it brings not only a splash of colour but also a sense of community pride and connection. The collaboration between local artists, residents, and businesses illustrates how art can serve as a bridge, linking people to their history and to each other. With such initiatives, Ossett continues to foster a lively and engaged community, making it a more inviting place for both residents and visitors alike.
