A RED telephone box which became synonymous with Wirral chart-toppers OMD has been transformed into an art installation in time for the band's 40th anniversary.

The iconic 623 3003 phone box on Greenwood Road, Meols is beloved by fans as it is the focus of the band’s second single release Red Frame/White Light.

Last year it was removed as part of BT's payphone removal programme, with no objections having been received as part of the public consultation process towards the end of 2016.

But when fans realised that it had been removed, they campaigned for its reinstatement as a tourist attraction for other OMD fans who regularly travel to the site.

Officers from the town hall’s highways team and Wirral West Constituency Committee liaised with colleagues from BT and eventually the box was secured and placed into quarantine while arrangements for its recovery were put in place.

In the late 1970s the box was used by OMD members to make calls to organise their early gigs and the number - 632 3003 - is a key feature of Red Frame/White Light lyrics.

The telephone box before its makeover. (Picture: Friends of 632 3003)

To celebrate 40 years of OMD, a group of campaigners known as 'Friends of 632 3003' have transformed the red telephone box into an urban art installation with the help of local artist John Petch.

Andy Barrett from Friends of 632 3003 told the Globe: "We were all incredulous at the removal of the box late last year, but since its return our iconic 632 3003 phone box has been transformed into an amazing work of art with the installation of a bespoke design by local artist, John Petch.

"John designed the OMD Punishment of Luxury album cover and the artwork for a number of the singles from the album.

"The design contains elements of the Punishment of Luxury album cover and also specific design features relevant to the Red Frame White Light lyrics.

"You will see red on grey sections in parts of the artwork.

"It looks absolutely amazing and we can’t wait for you all to visit the phone box as the photos do not do it justice.

"The Friends of 632 3003 would like to express sincere thanks to John, Lucy and the Dot Art Gallery for their help and support in creating this fantastic cultural feature."

OMD will perform two sell-out nights at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall to mark their 40th anniversary next month.