A tribute to the fund raising exploits of Captain Tom was unveiled on his 100th birthday, a 12 foot high mural on the wall of a popular restaurant in Abergavenny, writes Douglas McArthur.

The mural was painted in two days by newsagent and artist, Paul Cable of Cablenews, and was introduced as Abergavenny’s latest outdoor artwork, shortly after the iconic Spitfire and Hurricane of the Battle of Britain Flight fly past in Yorkshire to celebrate Captain Tom’s 100th birthday.

Paul’s shop is opposite the mural on the Baker Street wall of Casa Bianca, Italian restaurant. With Paul is friend Gary Thickett, who retired to Abergavenny as a Staff Sergeant at the Infantry Battle School, Brecon.

Gary originally hails from Conisbrough in Yorkshire, not too far from where Captain Tom lives.

Paul started his painting journey at Brynmawr Comprehensive and has painted in any discipline since.

“I doodled a lot,” he said, “in fact I overloaded on doodling, and am still at it at 61.

I was very pleased to take this project on because I am so impressed with what this man has done.

’’I am very patriotic but Captain Tom has brought the whole country together and in years to come he will be remembered for shining a light in the darkness of this pandemic.

’’Because of him, people are more aware of looking out for each other, and are looking for ways to help.

’’If he can raise £30million for the NHS during his centenary year what can the rest of us do?

“People are smiling, saying good morning to each other because of his contribution. To paint his portrait was a privilege and when people see it they will be reminded of his selfless efforts.”

Paul’s outside murals in Frogmore Street started with a chalk board at Nicholls Department Store, and now grace the walls of several shops in the pedestrian precinct, adding an extra artistic dimension to the newly improved street.

Gary helped to form the Combined Armed Forces Breakfast Club, which meets at the new Harvesters. “It gives vets the chance to meet up with like minded people and just keep the contact going really.”