A stunning new public art installation featuring memorable words about local life was unveiled yesterday (Fri) at Thornton Heath station.

Funding was approved for the Roundel, which is a symbol of London Transport translated into mosaics at stations. It is being designed for Platform 1 by artist Maud Milton of Artyface after local resident Averil Coutinho campaigned for the roundel and galvanised the community to participate.

Over the last three months young and old have contributed words for inclusion via email and an online survey as well as etched some clay tiles within their households.

Maud appealed for positive words from the community to sum up what they liked about the station, their favourite place in Thornton Heath and what word best summed up Thornton Heath.

Locals took part in a brief survey along with children from Whitehorse Manor Primary school and chosen memorable words were then etched on to soft clay tiles of the mosaic that are textured and glazed in the house colours of Southern Trains.

The Roundel has become a symbol of London transport and was unveiled in the early 20th century and is both a genius piece of art and advertising, guiding travellers to their nearest TfL service. The art installation has been sited under cover on Platform 1 and is graffiti proofed with a longevity beyond 25 years.

Click here to read more about Maud’s work.