Scots outlaw gets face-lift as damaged Banff painting is restored

The 15ft artwork was ripped during the incident at the Kelpie Cafe earlier this year.

Since then, the piece – which depicts Scots outlaw James McPherson – has been painstakingly repaired, with the torn sections glued back together.

Now it will be put back on display – but at the town’s museum to prevent any further damage.

Owner John Milne said it was the “best place” for the piece.

“In all honesty, the museum is the best place for it,” he said.

“The cafe can’t really provide the necessary security without the spending a lot of money. It’s not really an option.

“Local folk that have wanted to see it have probably already seen it.

“But as long as the public get to see it then I will be happy.”

The Hanging of McPherson was created by local teacher John Stewart in the 1970s, who advised artist Aneliya Beaton as she restored it.

An online crowdfunder raised £750 to help with the costs of the repair.

Earlier this week, the work was wheeled down to the museum on High Street.

Mark McDermott, day service manager at the Kelpie cafe, said the move is all about keeping the mural safe.

He said: “The painting is finished and has now been moved to the Banff Museum for greater security.

“It did turn some heads as it was carried or wheeled along the High Street.

“There will be an official opening of the museum and the painting will take center stage.”

The mural, which features the faces of people who lived in the town at that time it was made, will be unveiled to the public next month.

The Museum of Banff is run by Banffshire Preservation Society and Heritage Society in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council.

A 31-year-old man, Ian Thomson, has since been charged in connection with the incident.