Station art project celebrates notable residents

A project celebrating a plethora of stories from residents has been unveiled at an Oxfordshire train station.

Portraits of individuals embodying the spirit of Banbury were displayed on the town station's overbridge on Monday where travellers can view them.

It has been funded by Chiltern Railways' Community Investment Fund and initiated by Banbury Business Improvement District (BID).

Participant Dave Earle MBE, who has dedicated his life to helping those struggling with addiction and mental health, said Banbury was "somewhere where I found myself".

The chosen individuals have been nominated by community members and the images are courtesy of local photographer, Sam Bennett.

Each portrait has been paired with a QR code that links to a dedicated YouTube video of the participant's story.

The project forms part of a series of improvements at Banbury Station, including a new café, toilets, and painting programme being delivered in 2025.

Zach Bailey, regional growth manager at Chiltern Railways, said they were "delighted to be working with Banbury BID for a second year to promote the unique stories of local people and improve the look and feel of Banbury Station.

"We look forward to these displays complementing improved customer facilities at the station."

Jasmine Gilhooly, from Banbury BID, said it would be "great" to expand the project further next year.

Participants who shared their stories and have portraits displayed were invited to attend the launch event.

Mr Earle, who empowers individuals through free well-being classes and close work with schools, talked about the positive impact that living in Banbury had on him.

"If I'm down, all I need is to walk though town and I know I'm going to meet somebody who is going to cheer me up."

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