30768-4The personal artist of Virgin boss Richard Branson has been busy brushing up his creative genius at a Swindon hospital.

Swindonian Ken White, one of Britain's best known artists, turned his hand and brush to the children's area at the Great Western Hospital.

He may be used to adorning Branson's jet set empire with magical murals but he is just as happy to brighten up the walls in his home town.

He said: "It's rewarding painting in the hospital. It's nice just to brighten up the place."

The murals are in the play area and the recovery room in the oral surgery department. They have been funded by a £4,000 donation from The Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester.

One shows what at first glance is a scenic landscape, but on closer examination comes alive with hidden animals.

Earlier this year Ken created an array of optical illusion murals in the GWH's children's area of casualty, funded by McDonald's to the tune of £8,347.

Ken, 61, who attended Moredon School, designed the Scarlet Lady emblem which graces Virgin Atlantic's jets, after starting out as a sign writer with Swindon rail works.

Natalie Prinsloo, of the GWH, said: "Ken has once again waved his magic wand.

"The mural is colourful and really brightens up the room."