“Newark Banksy”
A Passion, A Ladder, and Hundred Cast Iron Signs
Full article and Gallery below Radio clips
BBC Radio 2 Jeremy Vine show interview with Newark Banksy below (05/11/2025)
Full Article Below
by David Fargher
I bloody love hearing about regular folk doing good and its been an absolute pleasure to write this one,.
Consider my cockles warmed from this story :)
"Civic pride isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And progress starts with people who care enough to act"
In every town, there are unsung heroes. Not the ones with medals, clipboards or fancy robes, but the quiet grafters who simply get on with making their community better......a quiet rebellion against apathy.
The ones who don’t shout, don’t selfie, and wouldn’t be caught dead in a hi-vis vest unless absolutely necessary.
This stealthy sign savior is one such hero, a resident who, with no fanfare and absolutely no desire for recognition, has taken it upon themselves to restore the town’s cast iron road signs. And what a job they’ve done: almost 100 signs lovingly cleaned, repainted, and revived, all off their own bat.
Just one person, a ladder, and a borderline romantic relationship with enamel paint.
This isn’t council work, not publically funded, there’s no contract, no invoice, and certainly no employee with a paintbrush in hand. Just a regular resident, driven by a passion for Newark’s history and a deep sense of community pride. They don’t want their name in lights, in fact, they’d rather not have it mentioned at all.
*Gallery at Bottom*
“I’ve happily worked without recognition and will continue to do so,” they say.
I’m calling them the “Newark Banksy.” Not because they're out spray-painting masterpieces on the side of the Town Hall, but because, like the famous street artist, nobody really knows who they are, and they would like to keep it that way.
Banksign sounded weird like a financial tech startup
Cast Iron Crusader was too dramatic and grand.
The Histor-iron was a mouthful that sounded like a vitamin supplement
So Newark Banksy it is. And unlike the real Banksy, this one actually fixes things.
Its also so very heartwarming to see, that in our current world of internet clout and chasing likes and followers from doing nothing more than having a weird haircut or planking(I dont know what the latest internet fads are so im channelling my inner 2000's here)
This person is doing it, simply because they want to, with no recognition
Armed with a ladder, a keen eye, and a steady hand, Newark Banksy has spent months scouring Newark for neglected signs, some perched above doorways, others lurking at knee height, many untouched for over half a century. Each restoration takes between half an hour and forty-five minutes, depending on the weather and the sun’s cooperation. Permission is always sought before a ladder goes up!
Their tally so far? Almost 100 signs
Yes, 100!!
My flabber was ghasted too!
Each one a small but significant act of preservation. “History has a way of disappearing in plain sight, unless it is looked for and noticed,” they say. “They’re above front doors, next to first floor windows, and lower than a knee. For years I’d noticed them decaying and left to corrode, falling into disrepair. Many replaced with cheaper ‘pressings’ at ground level.”
The Wellington Foundry: Newark’s Industrial Backbone
These signs are more than just wayfinders, they’re relics of Newark’s industrial heyday. The Wellington Foundry which was across the Trent from the old Brewery on Northgate, was once renowned for its fine castings. While Nicholson’s Foundry might be the name on everyone’s lips, Wellington quietly produced everything from ornamental cemetery gates to the humble street signs that still dot Newark’s streets.
These signs are survivors, outlasting decades of weather, urban change, and the temptation to replace them with cheaper alternatives. Each one restored is a nod to Newark’s past—a reminder to “look up,” as they tell their children, “because that’s where the history is, hidden in plain sight.”
In an age of shrinking budgets and growing bureaucracy, it’s easy to assume that the little things, the details that give a town its character, will simply fade away. Their work is a shining example of what happens when ordinary people take pride in where they live, stepping up not for applause, but for the love of place and history.
There’s no superhero cape here. Just a regular person, doing their bit to keep Newark’s history alive, one sign at a time. If you see them out with their ladder and paint, maybe give them a wave. But don’t expect to stop for a selfie.
They've got another sign to do.
A wise quote from the resident is below (and I couldnt agree more)
"I know people at times rightly have negative things to say about how their council tax is spent.
So by doing, instead of moaning, perhaps there will be a few more pennies to address their concerns.
Pick up that litter.
Give time to that vunerable neighbour.
Weed below wall that irritates you.
Return that shopping trolley that's not yours in the street."
What an absolute bloody hero!
They were kind enough to answer a few questions
Why did you decide to start painting and reviving the signs?
Because I love history and have come to love my adopted town. Because why should I expect something to be done if I can do it myself.
Because we should be coming together as a community and not trying to divide it.
Because I enjoy doing them.
- How many signs have you done so far, and do you plan to continue? Only in Newark, but also surrounding areas?
I reckon 60/70.
Caring about the our community should never be finite.
I'm often around the villages, making mental notes.
- What is the aim of this?
A nod to Newark's fabulous past and a little sparkle.
So the post person doesn't get lost.
- When did you start this project?
A few months ago, I don't keep a diary.
- Why is it important to do what you are doing?
Because it's important that we care about stuff.
- Why do you wish to remain anonymous?
Because I don't require validation, this isn't about me.
It's about history and our community.
Absolute Belter of a resident.
So next time you’re wandering Newark’s streets, look up. You might just spot a freshly painted sign, a glint of history restored, not by a faceless contractor, but by one of your neighbors.
And if you see Newark Banksy at work, maybe offer a quiet nod of thanks. Just don’t ask for their name—they’re not in it for the glory.
We applaud you, and thank you for making the town just that little bit nicer, street by street.
It makes me proud to be part of this community
Lets Talk a little about Civic Pride for a moment
Civic Pride Isn’t Just a Nice Idea - It’s How We Build a Better Newark!
Heres the bare and simple truth: a town only thrives when its people help it thrive.
You can also hear the radio interview I did about Banksy and Civic pride at the to of this page (2nd clip)
I’m not a councilor, a politician, a journalist or anyone with a title. I don’t work for the town - I’m simply a resident, just like you, and I like to share stories, events and the positive things happening in and around the town, I also like to volunteer with local groups, committees and events and spread awareness of a wide range of things.
One person CAN make a difference, with pride and purpose!
Yes, Newark has its challenges. So does every single town up and down the country. But posting complaints online doesn’t fix anything - it just fuels frustration and division.
If you actually care, gently pull out your finger and do something.
Civic pride isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And progress starts with people who care enough to act.
Here’s how we all can make a difference:
• Volunteer your time locally
• Pick up litter when you see it (even if its a single discarded can)
• Join a community group
• Support local events and businesses
• Share good news and celebrate achievements
• Help a neighbour in need, even if its just a chat
• Champion our history and the amazing people who live here
And if you’re truly concerned, go further:
• Raise awareness
• Give constructive feedback
• Take part in consultations and discussions
• Attend local meetings
• Learn the facts and be informed about what’s happening in and around our town (rather than believing throwaway comments on social media)
Civic pride means being part of the solution, not about political gain or applause.
It’s about loving where you live enough to roll up your sleeves and help shape its future. It’s not about waiting for someone else to fix things—it’s about us, all of us. (And it makes you feel pretty awesome too)
So here’s my challenge to you:
Be better.
Be proud.
Be active.
BE Newark.
Let’s show what happens when a town comes together—not just in words, but in action.
Civic pride isn’t just about flags, bunting, It’s about pride in where we live and building a better community.
Speaking of community, the feedback on Newark Banksy is fantatsic:
Locals have shared stories of respectful encounters, such as Katie Kettleborough’s meeting with the painter on Wolfit Avenue, where he ensured an elderly resident was comfortable before beginning work. Matt Cope described a similar experience, noting the painter’s passion and historical knowledge, which inspired his family to rediscover the town’s signage heritage
A Standout is from a local resident Hilary:
"They came to renovate the sign outside our hours a few weeks ago. I've been ashamed of it for years, thought it was beyond repair. They did a Fabolous job. Did me so much good as I was feeling very down about having to restart chemotherapy.
Actions like this go far beyond the already amazing kindness and dedication of smartening up our streets. I will never forget it, and how it changed my mindset from depression about my cancer treatment to joy and positivity about a skilled craftsperson doing this out of the kindness of their heart.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments highlighting the individual’s kindness, humility, and civic pride. Ruth Jones celebrated the selflessness of the act, while Kyleigh Feeney noted how it restored her faith in community spirit. Others, like Simeon Taylor, shared their own efforts to maintain signs, expressing admiration for the speed and quality of the recent work.
Some commenters, including Carol Maltby and Robert Garland, questioned why such maintenance isn’t handled by local authorities, sparking a broader conversation about civic responsibility and council priorities. Yet, the dominant tone remains one of gratitude and admiration.
From Balderton to Barnby Gate, residents have noticed the transformation. Amanda Wilson, Julie Gardner, and many others expressed joy at seeing the signs “restored and loved.” The initiative has even caught the attention of local media, with a Nottingham Post reporter requesting to feature the story.
In a time when public spirit often feels in short supply, this grassroots effort has reminded Newark of the power of quiet action and community care. As one commenter aptly put it: “This is what pride in your hometown should look like.”
you can read more fantastic comments on the FB post here
What an incredible person, and im proud to say I share the same town as them.
Thankyou
David Fargher
Newark Guide
Want to learn more about Newark and its wonderful history?
either browse his website (it contains a LOT about Newark)
Or, if you're feeling fancy and want some new wonderful history and humour books:
Take a stroll through history—and architecture—with this delightfully witty and warmly told two-book series celebrating the quirks, charm, and character of Newark-on-Trent.
Newark-on-Trent: A Sometimes Witty Journey Through Time
Ever wondered what happens when you mix mammoth hunters, Roman potters, Viking landlords, Civil War cannonballs, and a 21st-century bloke with a curious mind and a sarcasm problem?
You get this book
From Roman roads to Civil War sieges, Victorian industry to modern oddities, this book is your time-travel ticket through Newark’s rich and occasionally eccentric past. With humour and heart, David Fargher unearths the stories that shaped the town, one curious century at a time.
Newark-on-Trent: Bricks, Beams and Banter
Buildings don’t just stand—they speak. This companion volume explores Newark’s architectural gems, from timber-framed inns and Georgian townhouses to the only Odinist temple in England. Each chapter reveals the tales behind the town’s most characterful structures, told with the same wit and warmth that made the first book a local favourite.
Why buy both?
Because together, they offer the full Newark experience: one through time, the other through space. Whether you're a local, a visitor, or a history buff with a soft spot for sash windows, this series is your guide to the soul of a town that’s gloriously listed, occasionally eccentric, and always worth exploring.
www.newarkguide.co.uk/shop
You can also see a gallery of the beautiful town of Newark HERE
