Midlands college refuses to take down 'distasteful' Jimmy Savile painting

A Midlands art college is refusing to take down a painting of Jimmy Savile, dressed as a knight in shining armour.

South Staffordshire College have said the artwork, done by a former student, was supposed to be an 'ironic' swipe at the alleged cover-up of the entertainer's crimes.

One art student, who did not wish to be named, has described how the painting has been divisive.

"It does split opinion in the college. Some people think it's distasteful but some think it's interesting.

"It causes a debate and I guess that's the point of art in many ways."

Another student added:

"I think they probably should take it down now everything has come out about him.

"It's in the corridor not even in a room so you can't avoid it if you go to the art department.

"They say Savile had hundreds of victims so it's possible a family member of someone affected by him will come to this college.

"I don't think they would want to see a giant portrait of him grinning like that."

South Staffordshire College have since said they are going to add a caption to help explain the artwork.