Andy Rourke Mural to Be Lit Up Purple to Mark First Anniversary of Tribute and Raise Awareness of Pancreatic Cancer – Jem Girl at the Piano

Andy Rourke Mural to Be Lit Up Purple to Mark First Anniversary of Tribute and Raise Awareness of Pancreatic Cancer.

One year after its unveiling in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, the striking mural of late Smiths bassist Andy Rourke will be illuminated in purple on Thursday evening to mark the anniversary and support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day 2025.

The tribute mural—created by renowned street artist Akse-P19 using an image by The Smiths’ tour photographer Nalinee Darmrong—continues to draw visitors from across the world.

Launched alongside a Crowdfunder in September 2024, the project set up by The Smiths’ drummer Mike Joyce raised £30,000 in support of Pancreatic Cancer Action, honouring Rourke, who died in May 2023 aged 59 following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

To mark the anniversary, fans are warmly invited to come along on Thursday, take photographs, meet fellow Smiths devotees, and raise a glass to Andy at The Wheatsheaf, outside which the mural is located.

A QR code installed beside the mural remains active, allowing visitors to continue donating to Pancreatic Cancer Action simply by scanning with their phone.

The anniversary also coincides with the completion of Mike Joyce’s UK book tour for his new autobiography The Drummer.

Mike Joyce said: “Seeing Andy’s mural lit up in purple is going to be incredibly moving — a real celebration of who he was and what he meant to so many people. Over the past year I’ve been blown away by how many fans have travelled to see it, left messages, and shared memories.

He adds: “While touring my book this month, countless people told me how much the mural means to them. This anniversary feels like the perfect moment for everyone to come together again, remember Andy, and keep raising awareness of pancreatic cancer.”*

Anthony Cummings, CEO of Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: “The purple illumination of the Andy Rourke mural is a powerful symbol of support for everyone affected by pancreatic cancer and is the signature colour of the charity. Awareness saves lives, and this tribute has helped spark vital conversations every day since it was unveiled.

“We are deeply grateful to Mike and all who made this project possible — Andy’s legacy continues to make a huge impact in raising awareness of this devastating cancer.”

Donations to Pancreatic Cancer Action can be made at the mural via QR code or online: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/andy-rourke-mural