Pete Shelley mural campaign shortlisted for BBC award

Unveiled in July 2022, a huge mural facing Leigh Turnpike Gallery and the Town Hall was completed of the former Buzzcocks frontman, leaving a lasting memory of Shelley in the centre of his hometown.

Paying homage to Shelley's life and career, the mural came four years after the singer's death, of a suspected heart attack in Estonia in 2018, aged 63, where he had moved with his second wife Greta.

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Shelley passed away in 2018 aged 63 (Image: PA)

Created by acclaimed street artist Akse and graphic art pioneer (and long time friend of Shelley) Malcolm Garrett, the artwork came to life following a three-year fundraising project by The Pete Shelley Memorial Campaign and a partnership with Wigan Council.

With many residents and visitors applauding the artwork since its unveiling, the group behind the Pete Shelley Memorial Campaign has now been shortlisted at BBC Radio Manchester's 'Make a Difference' Awards.

Malcom Garrett outside the Pete Shelley plaque in Pennington (Image: Wigan Council)

Nominated for the 'Together' award, this recognises individuals or groups who bring communities together, create real change, or bring people from different walks of life together for a common cause.

The national 'Make a Difference' campaign will take place across each BBC Radio region this September, where it will be announced if the Pete Shelley Memorial Campaign has been crowned winners.

The mural close to completion last year (Image: Robert Large)

A spokesperson for the group said: "The creation of Pete’s mural in his hometown of Leigh isn’t attributable to any one person.

"It was a superb collective effort brought about by the love and kindness of Pete’s fans, friends and family.

"On behalf of the Pete Shelley Memorial Campaign, a huge congratulations to you all for the shortlisting in the ‘Together’ category for the BBC Radio Manchester’s Make a Difference Awards 2023."