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Sunday 22/02/2026

Mysterious Sam Allardyce Mural Sparks Curiosity in Dudley

Mural of Sam Allardyce eating orange chips in Dudley
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A 10ft mural of former football manager Sam Allardyce eating orange chips has appeared in Dudley, sparking curiosity and mixed reactions.
  • The artwork, believed to have been installed on Union Street near a chip shop, has drawn comparisons to Banksy due to its mysterious origins.
  • Allardyce expressed his delight at the mural, calling it a "very good likeness" and thanking the unknown artist.
  • Local residents have mixed opinions, with some appreciating the cultural nod to Dudley and others finding it puzzling.
  • The mural has put Dudley in the spotlight, with discussions about the origins of orange chips and the identity of the artist.

A mysterious 10ft mural of former England and Premier League manager Sam Allardyce has unexpectedly appeared in Dudley, his hometown, drawing both intrigue and mixed reactions from locals. The artwork, which depicts Allardyce enjoying a plate of orange chips—a regional delicacy—was discovered on a wall in Union Street, near a local chip shop, on Wednesday.

A Nod to Local Culture

The mural has been likened to the work of the elusive street artist Banksy, with residents speculating about the identity of the creator. Scot Simmons, a Dudley resident, expressed his surprise at the mural's sudden appearance, questioning how it was installed without anyone noticing. "It's put Dudley on the map," he remarked, highlighting the cultural significance of the piece.

Allardyce's Approval

In a video message to ITV News, Allardyce, affectionately known as "Big Sam," expressed his pleasure at the tribute. "Absolutely privileged to be honest with you, I thought it was a very good likeness," he said, adding humorously that the chips looked "a bit hot." The former manager, who has led teams such as Bolton Wanderers, West Ham, and England, thanked the anonymous artist for the homage.

Mixed Reactions from Locals

While some locals appreciate the mural's nod to Dudley's culture, others are less impressed. One unnamed worker described it as "the random-est thing I’ve ever seen," questioning its purpose. Despite the mixed reviews, the mural has sparked conversations about the origins of orange chips, a dish believed to have been popularized during wartime rationing.

A New Cultural Landmark?

The mural has undoubtedly brought attention to Dudley, with some residents suggesting it could become a local landmark. Andy Smith, another local, humorously noted, "Local lad eating orange chips, what more do you want?" The artwork's mysterious nature and cultural references have made it a topic of discussion, both for its artistic value and its connection to the community.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The sudden appearance of the Sam Allardyce mural in Dudley could lead to increased interest in the town's cultural offerings, potentially attracting tourists and art enthusiasts. If the artist's identity remains unknown, the mural may continue to draw comparisons to Banksy's work, further enhancing its allure. Additionally, the mural could inspire similar artistic endeavors in the area, fostering a vibrant street art scene. As discussions about the origins of orange chips continue, local businesses might capitalize on the dish's newfound fame, offering it as a unique culinary experience for visitors.