PUBLIC art that runs alongside the iconic River Tyne has been transformed thanks to Darwen firm Crown Paints.

The Ribbon Railings are a well-known landmark in the North East, stretching along the Askew Road to Gateshead and Newcastle, and seen by hundreds of thousands of motorists using the route.

Stretching about a quarter of a mile, the railings, made of galvanised steel and rising to a height of 1.4metres, were erected in 2002 and inspired by ribbons floating in the wind.

Years after they were last painted, the railings are now back to pristine condition, with Crown Trade Protective Coatings High Performance Gloss for Metal applied throughout the entire display.

The work was carried out by Bell Group, trade partners of Crown Paints, who have a long-standing working relationship with Gateshead Council.

David Hope, specification sales manager for Crown Paints said: “We are delighted to have played a part in this project.”