Feathered Flash transforms Faversham pumping station

Flash the Kingfisher earned a place in the hearts of local residents during the Covid lockdowns, when sightings of the vibrant bird flying across the Westbrook chalk stream brought colour to dull days. 

Now he has been immortalised in a new mural on our Millstream wastewater pumping station located beside the scenic millstream walk. 

“Flash played a huge part in people's lives, especially during Covid when he became quite tame or rather, less prone to flying away when residents approached. It seems that he became a symbol for hope and perseverance in the town,” explains artist Will Redgrove, who was commissioned by Southern Water to paint the site.  

“Just a flash of blue and you feel it. It makes you feel lucky, like you've seen a jewel. In the time I spent painting, I heard a lot of stories about the kingfisher from local people. Flash has brought a lot of magic and grace into people's lives.” 

We were approached by Faversham Town councillor Rob Crayford and community group Friends of the Westbrook & Stonebridge Pond over concerns about the ongoing graffitiing of the pumping station. In response, we opted to fund the creation of a new mural. The town council has committed to maintaining the artwork over the next three years.  

Our community engagement officer Dan Rodrigues said: “We are delighted to see Flash given a permanent place in the local landscape. 

This collaboration not only helps preserve a valued community space but also contributes to a more welcoming and inspiring environment for everyone. 

It reflects our commitment to making communities stronger and demonstrates how working together with local stakeholders can enhance shared spaces for the benefit of all.” 

Cllr Crayford said: “Through resident surveys and close collaboration with the local community, we transformed a long-standing eyesore into a vibrant mural that reflects local pride. The community often holds the solutions to local issues, and it’s vital they are involved in both problem-solving and decision-making.  

Thanks to a partnership between Faversham Town Council, Southern Water, Swale Borough councillors, community groups, and residents — and without using taxpayers’ money — we’ve shown how graffiti can be tackled creatively, delivering something beautiful that residents can enjoy every day. Southern Water have been dedicated in working with us all to achieve this outcome.” 

Pam Margrie, from Friends of the Westbrook & Stonebridge Pond,  said:  “I walk daily along the Westbrook Stream and watched from day one the station being transformed from a building covered in graffiti to an artwork depicting the vibrancy of the colourful kingfisher who flies up and down the stream, delighting the many people who have seen it. The mural is a permanent reminder of the joy he brings.”