Aston Villa fan pub unveils mural honouring late Villa legend Gary Shaw - see it here

The Witton Arms has unveiled a mural of late Aston Villa icon Gary Shaw.

Shaw, who was a pivotal figure in Aston Villa’s historic triumphs in the early 1980s, died from injuries sustained in a fall at his home in Birmingham earlier this month. Villa Park paid an emotional tribute to Gary during last Saturday’s derby with Wolves, as loved ones and old team-mates were on the pitch prior to kick-off.

During the 1980s, Shaw's goals helped Villa win the First Division championship in 1980–81 and the European Cup the following year- the only Solihull-born player in the team.

In 1981, he was voted PFA Young Player of the Year, and was awarded the Bravo Award the following year, as the best under-23 player in European Competitions.

Pub unveils mural of Villa legend

The Witton Arms, a beloved Aston Villa supporters’ pub just around the corner from Villa Park, has now unveiled a new mural paying tribute to the late Shaw.

The mural will be revealed ahead of Villa's Champions League fixture against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, October 4, marking a special moment for fans as they remember the club legend.

Shaw’s talent and contributions on the pitch made him a hero to Villa fans, and this mural is a tribute to his lasting legacy. The artwork, seen above prominently displayed on the pub’s exterior wall, captures Shaw in his glory days, celebrating his pivotal goals during that historic season.

What’s been said about the mural?

Linda Fitzgerald, owner of the Witton Arms, shared his thoughts on honoring Shaw:,"Gary Shaw is a true Villa legend, and his memory lives on in the hearts of all Villa fans.

“This mural is a way for us to celebrate his legacy and remember the joy he brought to the club, especially during that famous European Cup-winning campaign. We wanted to unveil it ahead of such an important match to remind fans of what we’ve achieved as a club and what we’re capable of."

The official unveiling will take place on the afternoon of Wednesday, October 4th, just hours before Aston Villa's Champions League group stage match against Bayern Munich at Villa Park. Fans are encouraged to visit the Witton Arms to join in the tribute, enjoy the pre-match atmosphere, and celebrate Shaw's memory.