New 'Welcome to Hullywood' mural unveiled as Hull celebrates launch of Blitz film

A new mural honouring Hull's recent history in film has been unveiled in Paragon Station.

The mural greets those who have just stepped onto the platform from the train, with homages to recent film productions such as Blitz, Enola Holmes 2 and David Copperfield.

The impressive painting, in partnership with station owners Trans Pennine Express and local artist Andy Pea, was shown to the public on November 13 to celebrate the launch of a new augmented reality trail and the first of four sold out screenings of Blitz by Hull Independent Cinema.

Ben Courtney, Station Manager at TransPennine Express, said: “It was incredible for Hull station to be a part of the Hullywood experience – and to see it transform into times gone by. We are excited for everyone to see us on the big screen.

“Our mural, which celebrates Hull’s links to the film industry and our place in the community will be pride of place for our customers to enjoy as they are passing through, and as part of the digital trail.”

The interactive trail is a continuation of the "It must be Hullywood " walking trail released earlier this year. Since being released in March, over 4,000 leaflets to promote the walk that showcases landmarks in the City Centre that have been used for television or film, have been distributed.

Similar to its predecessor, the trail guides film fans to key filming locations. Enhanced by augmented reality, the trail can be downloaded through the What Was Here app.

READ MORE: See Hull Old Town filming of Apple TV's Blitz from above in amazing drone footage

Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure at Hull City Council said: “Hull’s links to Hollywood grow each year and with over 4,000 trail leaflets distributed since its launch in the spring, it’s clear there is a real appetite for it with residents and visitors.

“The AR version will really bring this trail to life and I can see it proving very popular. TransPennine Express’ new mural captures the spirit of Hullywood, as well as our talented bank of performers, perfectly and will make a fantastic addition to the station.

“I would also like to congratulate Hull Independent Cinemas for securing a first public screening of new blockbuster The Blitz with, of course, scenes shot across the city last year. I look forward to seeing Hull on the big screen once again.”

With Blitz being the arguably the most hyped film recorded in the city, local charity Hull Independent Cinema have had four special screenings of the Oscar-tipped film already sold out.

James Russell, Chair of Hull Independent Cinema said: “We’re delighted to be working with VHEY to present Blitz in Hull so soon after its successful debut at BFI London Film Festival.

“Hull Independent Cinema exists to bring the work of great filmmakers like Steve McQueen to Hull audiences, and with so much of this film having been shot in Hull we’re sure that local people will be hugely enthusiastic about seeing the film with us.

“Big thanks go to Altitude Films for allowing us to screen the film.”