A large mural of George Michael has appeared overnight in Sydney, Australia.

The late singer, who died in the UK on Christmas Day, aged 53, had a home in Sydney and a large fan following in the country.

The Newtown mural, which depicts him as ‘Saint George, Patron Saint of Parks at Night’, has him dressed in a cassock with a rainbow stole. He is holding a large joint in one hand, and what appears to be a bottle of poppers in the other.

Michael made no secret of his use and enjoyment of cannabis, and was famously caught by police whilst cruising a public toilet in Los Angeles. He was also open about visiting Hampstead Heath near his London home – a popular cruising spot with gay and bisexual men.

The work was created by artist Scott Marsh, with the help and support of local production duo, Stereogamous.

‘George’s passing has been a devastating blow to our community’

On a posting on their Facebook page, Stereogamous said, ‘We got together with local painting magician Scott Marsh to honor our dear friend. Presenting “Saint George, Patron Saint of Parks at Night” Remembering this lover & activist watching over us all.’

On their Twitter account, they posted images of the mural being created.

Saint @GeorgeMichael

Patron Saint of Parks at Night ❤🌈🏳️🌈❤

by Scott Marsh

Newtown, Sydney. 2017 pic.twitter.com/1kg5V4AgpO — stereogamous (@stereogamous) January 12, 2017

The mural is in the hip Newtown district, on the corner of Bray and Coulson Street.

In a statement to GSN as to why they had wanted to create the mural, Stereogamous – Jonny Seymour and Paul Mac – said: ‘George’s passing has been a devastating blow to our community. He means so much to so many in our queer family. He was also good friend, brother and musical collaborator of ours too.

‘We needed to have a physical tribute where LGBTIQ people (and our admirers) could gather to pay their respects without any dogma barking.

‘Scott Marsh, like George is an artist and activist. He was very enthusiastic to portray George in a loving and spiritual way. The concept of Saint George is very appropriate. He is a gayngel, after all.’