A heartfelt tribute has been created by Cheltenham street artist Andy Dice Davies to commemorate Jim Davis, the 73-year-old pensioner who tragically died following an assault near Waitrose in Cheltenham. Known affectionately as “Lord Jim,” Mr. Davis passed away on April 10, two days after the incident on Honeybourne Way, near the Millennium Bridge. Gloucestershire Police received the report of a serious assault at the location on April 8.
In the days following Mr. Davis’s death, two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of murder. While no further action is being taken against the 16-year-old, the 17-year-old remains on police bail as investigations continue.
Andy Dice Davies, director of the Cheltenham Paint Festival and a celebrated public artist in the town, painted a poignant portrait of Mr. Davis on a wall beneath the Millennium Bridge. Sharing the artwork on Facebook, Davies described the pensioner’s death as “a sad and needless waste of life” and expressed his honor at being allowed by the family to create the tribute close to where Mr. Davis passed. The painting draws inspiration from a photograph released by Mr. Davis’s family.
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In a heartfelt statement, the family remembered ‘Jimmy’ as a beloved friend to many, describing him as “one of the kindest people anyone could have the pleasure of meeting.” They highlighted his warmth, compassion, and generosity, noting his love of motorcycles, storytelling talents, and joie de vivre. They shared that his loss has deeply affected countless lives, declaring, “Our lives will never be the same without him.”
The community of Cheltenham has been moved by Mr. Davis’s untimely death, with many expressing grief and solidarity. A floral tribute and note near the bridge read, “R.I.P, Our society should be better than this.” Social media reactions praised the tribute artwork and mourned the loss of a man known for his kindness and care for others.
Gloucestershire Police’s major crime investigation team continues to lead the inquiry into Mr. Davis’s death. Authorities are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with information to come forward to aid the investigation.