Winchester railway station has its first permanent artwork after a five-year effort.

The community mosaic, entitled Winchester – City of Sport, was suggested by Winchester Sport Art and Leisure Trust (SALT).

In 2019, the charity approached Network Rail and South Western Railway with the idea of installing a mosaic in the pedestrian underpass at the station.

Several years were spent obtaining the necessary permissions, partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

During this time, SALT collaborated with mosaic artist Joanna Dewfall to create a design depicting various sports played across Winchester.

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The mosaic depicts different sports in Winchester (Image: Winchester Sport Art and Leisure Trust) Joanna, who has previously created artworks for other stations and a mosaic for Cala Homes, ran eight community workshops in September at Winchester Rugby Club.

These sessions were attended by 37 residents who helped create parts of the design.

Joanna said: "I always enjoy designing and directing collaborative mosaic projects, but this one was extra special as the participants included students from the Winchester School of Art – my own alma mater."

The mosaic was officially unveiled on November 3 by Emma Back and Sue Falconer from SALT, Joanna, and some of the residents who participated in the project.

Sue expressed her gratitude to South Western Railway, Network Rail, the Three Rivers Community Rail Partnership, the rugby club and the family trust that funded the mosaic.

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The community mosaic is entitled Winchester – City of Sport (Image: Winchester Sport Art and Leisure Trust) She said: "The biggest thanks go to all the volunteers who helped to make the mosaic with Joanna's support – you've made this project possible."

Emma added: "It took a long time but I'm so glad we persevered.

"The mosaic is a great example of community collaboration, and it's fantastic to celebrate Winchester's rich sporting history and the contribution local clubs make to our city."

Winchester is one of the most active areas in the country according to Sport England and is home to some of the oldest clubs.

The Friary Bowling Club was established in 1820, and the swimming club dates back to the 1860s.

Winchester City Football Club was formed in 1884, followed by Winchester Hockey Club in 1891 and the rugby club in 1929.

Currently, there are approximately 100 community sports clubs and groups within the city and its immediate vicinity, according to Sport Winchester's 2024 directory.

The station project could inspire a trend for mosaics in Winchester.

Residents interested in creating their own mosaics can attend Joanna tailored half-day workshops for small groups.

Further information and booking details are available at dewfallmosaic.co.uk.

Joanna's work can also be seen on Instagram at dewfallmosaic.