A LARGE painting encompassing Malmesbury's fascinating history was unveiled last week.

The latest colourful creation from Phillip Kingsbury, who grew up in Malmesbury, was shown to the public for the first time at The Old Bell Hotel on Wednesday, January 3. 

Guests, including town mayor Gavin Grant, enjoyed a glass of bubbly while admiring the artwork.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Liz Cook, Cllr Gavin Grant, Kim Hanks, Phillip Kingsbury and Whit HanksLiz Cook, Cllr Gavin Grant, Kim Hanks, Phillip Kingsbury and Whit Hanks (Image: Leanne Punshon)
Mr Kingsbury, of The Wooden Spoon Press, completed a series of Malmesbury paintings last summer and The Old Bell Hotel owners Kim and Whit Hanks bought a piece which depicts the infamous story of Hannah Twynnoy.

Hannah is believed to have been the first person to be killed by a tiger in Britain.

Soon after the Hanks asked to commission a larger canvas version that would include other parts of the town and some more historic characters from Malmesbury's past.

The artist used colourful inks and acrylics to create the bright and bold artwork.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Phillip Kingsbury next to his latest creation Phillip Kingsbury next to his latest creation (Image: Leanne Punshon)

It took a month to complete and encompasses a variety of well-known characters such as Walter Powell, a local politician who disappeared in a hot air balloon, and Eilmer the flying monk, who jumped from the top of Malmesbury Abbey with homemade wings strapped to his back.

Mr Kingsbury said: "I was really honoured to be asked to do the painting, it is the largest painting I have ever done. 

"I painted it over a month, doing a few hours at a time in stages.

"My favourite part is the tiger in the foreground on the left, he seems friendly and bright. 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Phillip Kingsbury in front of his latest creation Phillip Kingsbury in front of his latest creation (Image: Leanne Punshon)

"I wanted to create something that was really eye-catching and fun.

"I've not had any of my work officially unveiled before, so that was fun.

"I took my partner and our two children so I was pleased that they could share the lovely experience with me."

Kim Hanks said: “This vibrant piece of art exemplifies the history and joy that is Malmesbury.  

"Everyone from King Athelstan, to Elmer the Flying Monk is depicted in this scene.  

"The Old Bell Hotel is honoured to tell these stories through the lens of a local artist."