Leeds United are pleased to confirm that local artist Andy McVeigh has been commissioned to restore art work on electric and broadband boxes at Elland Road and the surrounding areas, working in conjunction with Leeds City Council and Virgin Media.
 
Andy, aka ‘The Burley Banksy’, has generated a cult following amongst Leeds United supporters for his iconic paintings which include dedications to Vinnie Jones, Marcelo Bielsa and the late Gary Speed.
 
In recent weeks this work has been damaged, however, thanks to help from Leeds City Council and Virgin Media, the club has been able to employ Mr McVeigh to recreate his work.
 
Leeds United Chief Executive, Angus Kinnear, said: “The art displayed by Andy is important to Leeds United and the city. The designs depict some of the most impactful players and kits from our 100 year history and you can see from our supporters’ reaction to the recent damage caused to the cabinets and how much it means to us all.
 
“Now that all parties have formally agreed to commission Andy’s work, his art should be protected for everyone to enjoy.”

Hugh Woolford is the Regional Director for North East and Yorkshire at Virgin Media, he commented: “Andy’s passionate artwork has proved to be a real hit with Leeds United fans so we’re glad to be supporting him. We’ll be working closely with the local council alongside Kirkstall and Burley residents to see what more we can do to add some creativity and colour to our cabinets in the area.”

Fiona Venner, Leeds City Councillor (Kirkstall), added: “Andy is a talented artist and over the years his work in my ward of Kirkstall has become much loved by the local community. In Kirkstall and Burley his art brightened up previously graffiti blighted boxes and has actually deterred further graffiti.

“The community were shocked to see that his work around Elland Road was covered up, so we are really pleased that the Council, Leeds United and Virgin have come together to give him the opportunity to restore it. Leeds fans have shown fantastic support for Andy and his art and it will be great to see it on display again as we celebrate the club’s centenary this season.”

Andy McVeigh and his son Danny will be guests of the club at Saturday’s home game against Derby County.