INTERNATIONAL Black Country artist Luke Perry is installing artwork in Shell Corner to “rebeautify” the area.

The Shell Corner Partnership is working together with Mr Perry to help the historic Halesowen area look more attractive.

Mr Perry, whose memorial sculpture of Mary Macarthur stands in Cradley Heath, is unveiling his first piece of artwork on Saturday.

He said: “I am delighted to be working with the Shell Corner Partnership (SCP) in this project and am busy finishing the first painting before its unveiling at the weekend.

“We want to rebeautify Shell Corner and are going for a 1900s feel with a lot of bold visuals to make an impact on visitors to the area.”

He added: “We are hoping the shopkeepers and residents like the artwork so we can do some more as soon as possible.”

Shell Corner Partnership is made up from local residents, businesses and councillors who work together to support the regeneration of the area.

The funding for the artwork, which will improve shopfronts and empty premises, could cost in the region of £1,5000 and has been secured from the Halesowen Area Committee and the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Halesowen North Councillor Jeff Hill, from the SCP, said: "Shell Corner has a rich history, and Luke has an excellent reputation for his industrial art.

“I'm looking forward to seeing the artwork in place, and am confident that Shell Corner Partnership will keep pushing through improvements to the area."

Fellow SCP member and councillor Hilary Bills added: “We want to show that Shell Corner is loved and let people know there is a great variety of businesses in the area.”

As well as the first artwork being unveiled on Saturday morning there is a Christmas fair in Shell Corner.

The Mayor and the Mayoress of Dudley Councillor Melvyn and Michelle Mottram will be opening the fair at St Paul’s Church Hall, Vicarage Road at 10am.

All money raised will go to improve Shell Corner, admission is 20p and to book a table for £5 email shellcorner@talktalk.net.