Gloucester Artists Mint + Mabel meet HRH The Princess Royal at Blackbridge Community Hub opening
Mint + Mabel (Hattie and Erin) meeting HRH Princess Royal. Photography by Thousand Word Media Ltd
The new Blackbridge Community and Sports Hub in Podsmead, Gloucester, was officially opened on 3rd September 2025 by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. The event brought together members of the local community, project partners, and businesses who played a vital role in bringing the long-awaited facility to life.
Among those in attendance were Gloucester-based artists and designers Mint + Mabel, who worked closely with the Blackbridge Charitable Community Benefit Society to develop the Hub’s visual identity – including its branding, internal murals, signage, and wayfinding graphics.
Plaque design by Mint + Mabel. Photography by Thousand Word Media Ltd
As part of the official opening, Mint + Mabel were commissioned to design the commemorative plaque unveiled by The Princess Royal. The bespoke plaque features hand-drawn illustrations inspired by the surrounding community and landscape, echoing the vibrant designs seen throughout the Hub.
“It was an honour to meet The Princess Royal and talk to her about the mural and design work we created for the Hub,” said Hattie from Mint + Mabel. “She was genuinely interested in the project and its importance to the local community.”
The unveiling took place in the Hub’s social space, in front of one of Mint + Mabel’s large-scale hand-painted murals that represents the Podsmead community and its rural surroundings.
In the lead-up to the opening, Mint + Mabel also hosted a creative workshop with members of the SYNERGY youth group at the Hub, where young people helped design and make bunting for the big day. These kinds of creative, community-based projects are at the heart of what the Hub represents, a space where people of all ages can come together to take part in sport, wellbeing, and creative activities.
“It was so lovely to meet everyone who has been involved in creating this wonderful space,” said Erin from Mint + Mabel. “As local Gloucester artists, it’s always a pleasure to collaborate with others in the community – especially on a project that will have such a positive impact across Gloucestershire.”
The new Blackbridge Community and Sports Hub provides a range of sports, leisure, and wellbeing activities for residents of Podsmead and the wider Gloucester area. The facility represents a major investment in local community infrastructure, designed to bring people together and promote active, healthy living.
“There was a real sense of pride and celebration throughout the day,” said Erin. “We’re so pleased to have contributed to a project that embodies community spirit in such a meaningful way.”
If you require murals or graphic design services, you can get in touch with Mint + Mabel here: