Controversy over development plans for the memorial field dedicated to Great War poet Wilfred Owen provided inspiration for a striking new painting of the poet.

Irish artist Samantha Tebbutt has created a canvas showing Owen and his young nephew (thought to be Leslie Gunston from Meols) among the branches of the 88 commemorative trees at the Ingleborough Road.

Samantha said: “It was painted as a reaction to the news of building at Ingleborough Road Memorial Playing Fields.”

Dean Johnson, founder of the Wilfred Owen Story exhibition added, “I was very moved by Samantha's gesture, and very proud to display this magnificent tribute to Wilfred.

“Samantha was drawn to the image because the memorial field was intended to provide a green open space for generations of children to use, as well as to commemorate the fallen of two world wars.”

He disclosed: “She would have seen stories about Ingleborough Road on our website and she was moved by the situation. I doubt whether it will affect the council decision, which will be seen by many people as a kind of disrespect.

“Being an artist Samantha reacted creatively.”

Wirral Council’s ruling cabinet have entered negotiations in a bid to lift the covenant protecting the memorial field.

If they succeed it could pave the way for Tranmere Rovers to build a new housing estate there.

Planning consent for more than 90 new homes was given last October but the development is dependent on the covenant being removed.

As part of the agreement with Wirral Council the football club would help revitalise Woodchurch Leisure Centre, which would become their training ground.