A MAJOR art project has burst into Bude, introducing vibrant colour and Italian heritage to the town’s La Bocca Pizza Kitchen.

The colourful and exciting mural — at the restaurant site along the Strand — is a representation of La Bocca’s ‘authentic Italian heritage’, which comes through their world-renowned Pizzaiolo, Leo Borriello, who heralds from the beautiful city of Naples.

The mural shows a Pulcinella chef against a visually vibrant background, reflecting the upbeat atmosphere of the La Bocca restaurant.

This project has brought together a conglomeration of local business owners, who exchanged ideas to bring to life this vivid piece of street art.

Those involved in the project were street artist, Steve Pinchless, owner of Stepping Stones Art Gallery, Chris Small, owner of Earth and Ocean Photography, and La Bocca’s Ben Hutchings, Leo Borriello and Lance John.

The work has already drawn a lot of admiration and a number of compliments from passing locals and visitors alike, and staff have been instructed in the history of the Pulcinella and his significance to Naples and Italy.

When La Bocca was initially enclosed by a number of the boards, erected by the neighbouring building site of the upcoming Premier Inn hotel, staff became concerned about the loss of trade, as the restaurant is currently completely obscured from the main road along the Strand.

However, with the talent of Steve, the restaurant now has a stunning, attention-grabbing work of art that can be seen from one direction at least.

Come the warmer weather, La Bocca will put out tables and chairs, and are sure that many customers will enjoy being seated within their beautifully crafted enclosure for food and drinks.

Lance John told the Post: “The staff at La Bocca would like to thank all those who gave up their time for free to help us with this project.”

La Bocca is open daily from 5pm till 9pm. To book a table, call 01288 255855.