Exmouth: Locals impressed by Gary Cook's RNLI tribute mural

Street artist Gary Cook, known locally as Garf, spent five months painting the mural honouring Exmouth's RNLI's past and present lifeboat volunteers.

The mural was officially unveiled by the mayor, Olly Davey, on January 17.

This artistic tribute comes during the RNLI's celebratory 200th anniversary year and is fully funded by 26 local businesses.

It's safe to say the local community are very impressed by the new addition.

One resident said: "Absolutely spot on, Gary you are transforming Exmouth with your dinosaurs and other murals."

Garf's RNLI mural in Exmouth. (Image: RNLI/Ian Bateman)

An Exmouth Journal reader added: "It’s a fabulous asset to Exmouth and a great tribute to the RNLI, I love seeing his other street art around town too".

Other locals have been quick to show their admiration, describing the mural as "amazing", "fabulous", "brilliant", and "sensational".

And one noted: "I love all Garf's murals but this is outstanding!"

The praise for Mr Cook did not end there, as residents lauded him as being "very talented".

One reader has been left crossing their fingers: "It is an amazing and perfect tribute, long may it stay there untouched".

The overwhelming positive reactions clearly indicate that the mural has been warmly received within the Exmouth community.

Speaking about the mural, Gary said: "It is a privilege to be involved with the RNLI in Exmouth and an exciting challenge for me to paint this mural.

"A painting this size is tricky but also the several storms that have passed by this month didn’t help.

"But it did make me think how courageous you have to be to head out to a rescue at sea in this weather.

"It’s either been too cold, too wet or too windy."