IT is inspired by one of the most famous English paintings of all time, the Hay Wain by John Constable, but older residents may recognise one or two faces in this striking Bournemouth artwork.

The 11x7 metre Smugglers Wain has been installed on an outside wall as one of the planning conditions for the new Kinson Hub library building in Wimborne Road.

Now mayor Cllr Barry Goldbart has unveiled a plaque inside the library explaining the different elements of the photo collage, designed by Devon-based artist David Harbott.

Mr Harbott spent months working with community groups on the project, which uses a blend of old photographs and modern techniques to represent the people and history of the village.

Kinson Historical Society helped collect 3,000 different pictures, from which the artist chose a small selection depicting such landmarks as Pelhams House, the Kinson Oak and St Andrews Church, as well as people from the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s.

Mr Harbott said: “The community element of it was challenging but fun.”

Some parts of the mural are manipulated. An old picture of the Kinson Splash was not clear enough, so another one taken at St Leonards in the 1950s was used instead.

The horse, driver and wain are digitally drawn, but that section of the design is based on a late Victorian picture of a horse and cart in the Splash.

Among those present to see the mural were Shelagh Levett, who retired as the service director for information, culture and community learning the day after the Kinson Hub opened in March.

Cllr Ian Lancashire, cabinet member for arts and culture, said: “The artwork is fantastic and staff at the Kinson Hub have already received many positive comments from residents.”