It comes after the unveiling of her latest two portraits, which include the late George Best and Bury-born sports star, Gary Neville.
Self-taught painter Carol-Anne Lee, whose artwork has featured across Bury and Greater Manchester, said she was “incredibly proud” after Angie Best personally messaged her to praise a life-story portrait of the Manchester United icon.
Carol-Anne, who previously created the ‘Heart of Bury’ painting for Bury Hospice, a canal mural in Radcliffe, and more, has built a reputation for weaving symbolism, memory, and emotion into her portraits.
She said: “I never simply paint a face – I paint the life, memories, and story surrounding the person. It is simply the way I have always painted.”
Her latest work includes a detailed portrait of former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville, featuring scenes reflecting his career, Manchester roots, and support for borough communities.
The piece has been delivered to the Stock Exchange Hotel in Manchester, which Neville co-owns, although she is still waiting to hear if he has received it.
Alongside this, she completed a portrait of George Best, described as a “life-story” painting.
After sharing it online, Carol-Anne received a message from Angie Best, praising the artwork as “absolutely amazing” and describing her as “a very talented woman”.
Carol-Anne said: “That meant a tremendous amount to me because nobody knew George Best more personally than Angie herself.
“To receive such kindness and praise from her was incredibly emotional and something I will always treasure.”
The recognition adds to years of work rooted in the local community.
In recent years, Carol-Anne has brightened up the Bury borough with colourful murals, including a community ‘Wonderwall’ on Water Street in Radcliffe and a poignant installation in the remembrance room at East Lancashire Crematorium.
She said previously: “I tried to tell the story of Bury through my eyes, to tell a story about its people, its history, and its compassion.
“With every brushstroke, I brought to life the spirit of Bury, where heritage and humanity walk hand in hand.”
Reflecting on her journey, Carol-Anne said she has spent years quietly creating artwork inspired by Manchester and Bury, telling the stories of people through paint.
She added: “This recent response to my work has made me incredibly proud.”
