Watford legends unveil new Hornets themed subway

The path under Exchange Road is commonly used by fans heading to Vicarage Road and has been transformed as part of a £55k project.

Completed during the club’s ‘100 Years at the Vic’ celebrations, as well as the borough’s centenary, fans can now expect to see a permanent reminder of the Hornet’s journey as they walk to the stadium.

The mural, which was done by MurWalls, was unveiled on Thursday, January 27, by club legends and co-funders Hertfordshire County Council and Watford Borough Council.

The portraits start with Cliff Holton – who scored a record 48 goals in the 1959/60 promotion season – and take in the Graham Taylor and Elton John years, which saw Watford rise from the fourth tier to the first.

Key players such as Tony Coton, Luther Blissett, Tommy Mooney and Troy Deeney are also featured.

Nigel Gibbs, who served the Hornets as a player, coach and assistant manager over the years is also featured and has been painted in the theme of the popular Panini stickers.

He said: “Watford Football Club has a long and proud tradition of serving its community and has established a reputation as the ‘Original Family Club’, something I felt keenly having followed in the footsteps of my father Dennis, who served the club as a scout and youth coach.

“The mural showcases the club and town’s sense of community by improving the subway, as well as highlighting those players who had an ever-lasting effect on both.”

The repainted walls all have anti-graffiti painted coatings.

New frames have also been installed throughout the tilled section, denoting the history and community involvement of the club and they will be continually updated as the club moves forward.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: "I am delighted that Watford Council, working with the Club and the County Council, was able to support this. There's no doubt it has helped brighten up the area and I'm sure it will be enjoyed by lots of Watford FC fans for years to come."

Phil Bibby, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Hertfordshire County Council, added: “Our aim is to offer all residents a cleaner, greener, healthier Hertfordshire. Providing attractive places to walk encourages more active travel, protects the environment and helps reduce traffic congestion.”