A new art mural has been installed at Rainham Precinct as part of a project to revitalise the shopping centre.

The 'Precinct People' display is the work of David Frankum, who spent time sketching passers-by at the centre - where the results are now up for all to see on giant display boards.

Posting on Facebook David said: "I've always been a massive admirer of 'public art' especially knowing, if created correctly, it can make a huge difference to a community's well-being. So, when I was offered the opportunity to produce an installation for my home area, I instantly jumped at the chance. I spent several days simply drawing people who I saw in the shopping precinct into my little pocket sketchbook.

"Even though there are 10 people on display, there are many more studies, which I will feature at Medway Open Studios & Arts Festival.

"I simply wanted to celebrate and champion 'the every day' and the 'ordinary' especially as many of the small participatory acts we enjoy and 'take for granted' have been denied to us over the last couple of years.

"Another aspect behind the piece explores my fascination with the idea that we all pass strangers but there is always a sense of connection as we find ourselves participating in the same act, be it for a few seconds."

The project is part of a wider 'Welcome Project', a Medway Council scheme celebrating Strood and Rainham town centres, which has seen eight Medway artists commissioned to create outdoor galleries of temporary artworks.

David said it was overwhelming to hear praise from passers-bys when he went to visit the mural.

And he added: "The positive effect the piece has instantly generated is lovely to hear.

"Photos never do any justice to art, so please feel free to visit the mural, which is up for three months, pose with it, be part of the community and celebrate those little lovely moments in life, be it a small smile. Go and enjoy! It's for you."

He also thanked Allison Young and Medway Arts their help and support for the project.

The artwork is a welcome addition to the centre, which has suffered from the loss of businesses and instances of anti-social behaviour, including a recent vandalism attack at Centre Cafe.

The mural has so far proved a big hit with visitors to the shopping centre, with hundreds showing their approval on social media.

"Like it; there’s a beginning and end to the series. Very cool and interesting work. Super well done," said once commentator, while another added: "I absolutely LOVE it!!! Many congratulations - there’s only one thing that disappoints me and that is that it’s only there for 3 months. What a fantastic addition to what has become an extremely uninteresting precinct. It’s absolutely brilliant and I cannot wait to see it in person!"

However there were some fears for the artwork's future, with another fan adding: "Amazing… Let’s hope the little vandals that have been damaging stuff at the precinct leave these lovely pieces of local artwork alone."

This Welcome Project is funded by The Welcome Back Fund from the European Regional Development Fund, and administered by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

The objective is to create and promote a safe environment for trade and tourism, particularly in high streets, as economies attempt to bounce back from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.