LOCAL artist Andrew Manson - otherwise known as Mani - has been helping to brighten up the Covered Market.

In recent months the city council, landlords of the historic market, have been encouraging artists to fill the visitor attraction with their eye-catching creations.

First, in July, papier-maché pigs and cows were hung from the roof and then a series of Banksy-style art pieces were installed to raise awareness of endangered animals.

The five images, featuring a jaguar, a blue whale, a sun bear, an elephant, and a bee, aimed to inspire a conversation about the wider impact of species extinction.

One of Mr Manson’s two murals has been created to brighten up the market entrance from Golden Cross.

The artist said: “I really hope my art adds colour and gets a few more punters coming into the market.”