Jeff Smith MP has joined the crowds of people adding supportive messages to the Marcus Rashford mural in Withington. The show of support comes just hours after the mural was defaced following the Euro 2020 final.

The mural was first painted as part of the ‘Withington Walls’ project, which aims to brighten up the area by organising a programme of public art and murals.

After the mural was vandalised following England’s defeat on Sunday, Withington Walls started a crowdfunder to help fund the ongoing repairs and protection of the mural.

On Tuesday, Jeff joined residents, local councillors and the Lord Mayor of Manchester in paying tribute to Marcus Rashford for his campaigning, and for the brilliant achievements of Marcus and his team mates at the Euro 2020 tournament.

Jeff said:

“I have been appalled by the abuse directed at members of the England team over the last couple of days and I know that many in our community have been upset by the defacing of the Marcus Rashford mural.

“It’s been inspiring and heart warming to see so many people visit the mural to add messages of support for Marcus and his teammates. 

“Withington is proud of Marcus Rashford and I am proud of our community for stepping up and showing that the actions of a minority do not represent us all.“