THE Badbury Park rock snake is to become a permanent fixture.

Secondary school art teacher, Jenny Green, spoke to house builder Persimmon Homes Wessex to make it happen after her project grew so long that it included 260 hand-painted pebbles.

She said: “As an art teacher I know the joy that creativity and art can bring, especially in a time that is challenging for so many. It has been a tremendous way to bring the new community together in a safe environment.

“Residents were encouraged to paint a rock at home with their own inspirational design – lots chose to show their support to the NHS, others took the opportunity to paint a positive picture and get creative.

"I expect over the October half term even more rocks will be added to the collection.

She added: “It has been lovely to see local people come out to have a look at the snake and we’re delighted to hear it will be a permanent fixture for residents to see for future years to come.”

Julian Roper from Persimmon said: “Covid-19 has been a hard time for so many, but it has also been a time when communities have come together and shown great strength, and this is a great example of just that.

“When Jenny approached us about making the Badbury Park rock snake a permanent fixture at the development, we were happy to be able to help.

“We are currently exploring the best places to locate the rock snake and working with Jenny to make this happen.”