Maryport's public realm project has been completed, with new artistic signage adding a touch of colour.

The project has seen one of the town's artists, Alan Roper, create unique images for map sign monoliths and lamp post banners.

These feature elements of the town's history, such as its architecture and industry, all with a distinctive Maryport twist.

Mr Roper said: "I see other images within an image—shapes that make up one image can also make up the shape of a second image.

"The example we see here—a three-dimensional letter 'M' laid on its side, shows a shape which lends itself to the shape of the base of the old Maryport lighthouse.

"All I had to do was to sit the remainder of the lighthouse on top."

Mr Roper's designs were created to 'celebrate the high street and provide a glimpse of its hidden past', linking together the new public realm improvements.

These improvements have seen extensive signage, particularly focused on the journey from the train station, as well as the transformation of the gateway to Senhouse Street and the main shopping area.

Artist Alan Roper with a new signage monolith (Image: Tom Kay Photographics) In addition to the new signage, the public realm project also includes a new pocket park, restoring an area of derelict land on the corner of Crosby Street and John Street.

Meanwhile, new off-street parking bays at the top of Furnace Lane are ideally placed for people to visit the town's main shopping area.

All the public realm improvements have been managed by Cumberland Council and made possible by Government funding.

Maryport is currently undergoing £12 million of regeneration schemes, bringing new attractions, new outdoor spaces, and transforming some of the town's most historic buildings.

Councillor Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: "I think Alan's work is fantastic.

"He has brought together so many key parts of Maryport's history to create this new artwork—with more colourful displays planned for other regeneration projects in the town too.

"It really brings out Maryport's personality and history and celebrates the town's unique past, present and future."