A huge mural of Aneurin Bevan has popped up in Tredegar town centre.
The mural features Nye himself and the iconic Tredegar clock tower in the background.
Its significance to the NHS is highlighted by the phrase ‘Tredegar – Birthplace of the NHS.’
Aneurin Bevan and NHS honoured with new Tredegar mural (Image: Paul Shepherd) The mural was created by Newbridge artist Paul Shepherd 52, better known as ‘Walls by Paul.’
Speaking about his latest piece Paul told the Argus: “I get asked to paint notable people occasionally, but none so far have got such a fantastic response as Nye Bevan.
“People are extremely proud of our NHS, so it was an honour in itself to be the chosen artist on this project. The painting process took a week.”The father of the NHS Aneurin Bevan giving a speech (Image: NQ) Born in Tredegar, South Wales, to a working-class family, Bevan became a passionate trade unionist and was elected MP for Ebbw Vale in 1929.
He later served as Minister of Health in 1948 where he spearheaded the creation of the NHS, providing free healthcare at the point of use for all in the UK.
The NHS was said to be inspired by the Tredegar Medical Aid Society, and similar groups. The scheme worked by people paying in a small amount of their wages, in return for medical help if they needed it.
When Bevan was responsible for creating the NHS as minister for health, he was quoted as saying: ““All I am doing is extending to the entire population of Britain the benefits we had in Tredegar for a generation or more. We are going to ‘Tredegar-ise’ you.”
The mural commissioned by Blaenau Gwent County Council has received positive local response.
Newbridge artist Paul Shepherd (Image: Paul Shepherd) Kay Short said: “Fantastic work of art, bringing history to life.”
Lyndsey Marie Rees said: “Love it, the black and white leading you into the colourful town clock, giving both Nye and the town clock a leading role. Brilliant.”
Jamie Spruce said: “Beautiful monument.”