Bob the Butcher returns to Cadishead
An eye-catching and commemorative piece of urban art was unveiled on 26th February after months of painstaking preparation.
‘Bob the Butcher’ is the third major artwork to launch in Irlam and Cadishead as part of the I C Art programme.
Held at the Hamilton Davies Trust Art Centre, the launch event was attended by around 80 local stakeholders, including residents and businesses who were eager to view the piece, along with Bob’s family.
The artwork tells the story of Robert ‘Bob’ Boardman, an inspiring local butcher who knew each of his customers by name and counted most as his friend.
Unfortunately Bob passed away in August 2015 at the age of 62 and this visually engaging piece of urban art has been
produced in his memory by local artist Rachelle Cleary.
Bob embodied the spirit of a community that many of us remember from childhood, when local shops thrived and customers were familiar faces, not just reflections of footfall or sales statistics.
The 15ft x 8ft artwork is featured on the corner of Liverpool Road and Fir Street in Cadishead, near the shop Bob ran for over 50 years. It depicts him at work as well as pursuing his favourite hobbies of fishing and having a flutter on the horses. He is also featured wearing a Manchester United cap, illustrating his lifelong love affair with the Red Devils.
Bob’s niece Eve Bell commented: “Uncle Robert was the kindest and most generous man. He was so loved in Cadishead because he had time for everyone. He didn’t run his butcher’s shop for money, he ran it for the community he loved.”
Bob the Butcher is the third major piece produced through our I C Art programme, which is creating urban art to enrich and enliven Irlam and Cadishead. As well as making the urban environment more attractive, the artwork reflects compelling 
narratives of individuals and events behind the community.
John Boardman, Bob’s Brother was delighted with the artwork and said “Absolutely fantastic, dead proud of it. It’s fetched Rob back to life. A lasting memory.”
Mandy Coleman, HDT General Manager said: “Bob was remembered by many as being such a kind man, who used to give away meats cheaply to people less well-off who couldn’t afford them. We saw this as the perfect way to honour him and his contribution to the community.”
Posted on: 26th February 2016