Fareham charity that helps people with learning disabilities find love unveils 'love' mural

At the Love4Life Fitzroy project centre in West Street, Fareham, a mural has been created in celebration of the group.

The project is a friendship and dating scheme for people with learning disabilities and autism, based at Fareham Community Church.

Street artist Fark was on hand to create most of the mural, inspired by ideas and additions from members of the group.

Members were around from 11am until 9pm, working on getting their masterpiece finished.

Ian Varndell, 40 from Portchester, said: ‘Lots of people have had their say on what the mural should look like.

‘We got to put everyone’s ideas together and it looks really good – I’m glad all the guys have been able to get involved.

‘We do so much as a group and that’s what makes Love4Life so great.’

Vicky Pervin, 37 from Fareham, is one of those who found love at the group.

She is dating 38-year-old David Sullivan, from Horndean.

Vicky said: ‘I’m glad we’re in a project like this because it allows people to meet each other. I really like coming here.’

David added: ‘The mural looks really nice – they’ve done a very good job.'

Street artist Fark has been painting on the streets of Portsmouth for 15 years.

He says he’s been inspired by the people at the project.

‘They’re such a cool bunch of guys,’ he said.

‘I never thought about it until today, but it’s so important to have a project like this.

‘We can go on Tinder or go to the pub and end up falling in love with someone; these guys don’t necessarily have that opportunity but deserve to find love too.

‘It’s just such a lovely environment here.’

Hayley Ostler, Love4Life’s coordinator, said: ‘The mural is absolutely amazing because we have contributions from everyone.

‘For example, the smiley face is for everybody being happy at the group.

‘Love4Life means so much to them and we’re so happy with how it’s turned out.’