6 May 2014 15:03

The essence of a Roses competition, the annual sporting tournament between Lancaster and York universities, will be preserved for posterity in a new work of art by renowned and respected local artist Chas Jacobs.

Lancaster University Chancellor Sir Chris Bonington officially revealed the fascinating piece of artwork for the first time at the start of the 50th Roses tournament on Friday 2nd May 2014.

“It is great that Chas was commissioned in 2012 to do this,” said Sir Chris. “He was asked to produce a piece of artwork that captured the action and atmosphere of Roses. I am as excited as everyone here to see this.”

From initial photographs Chas created a series of working drawings which he then collated into a montage to produce a trademark piece of bright, busy and colourful artwork, for which he is so well known, on a 30ins by 24ins canvas.

This was then scanned in high resolution and printed onto a giant top quality canvas.

Finally, Chas added the finishing touches by hand to create the ten feet by ten feet picture, which now hangs in Lancaster University Sports Centre reception area.

Chas said he was really delighted to have been asked to provide a snapshot of the Roses event, which clearly shows the Chancellor playing croquet at the 2012 event and the arrival of the Air Ambulance to tend to an injured player.

“I was particularly pleased to be commissioned to produce something for the 50th Roses,” he said. “This captures the mood of it all. If you are keen on sport you see it here.”

  • Memorabilia (including mobile phone covers, mouse mats and mugs), sporting the new artwork, is now available to purchase from the Sports Centre