The previous graffiti at the WH Smith end, I believe, was commissioned or instigated by the local council. It first appeared sometime in the late 1990’s or early 2000’s. Maybe other SE23.com readers could confirm?

There were references to Connex (the train operating company at the time). I seem to remember a man’s image wearing a train porter/conductor’s hat with Connex and its swooping trademark.

As you exited the subway and ascended the stairs towards WH Smith, on the right hand side, I also seem to remember a runaway train (again in the old Connex insignia) careening down the stairs. That was quite stylish. But dull taggers simply started putting their non-commissioned marks on it and the original bit of art was corrupted rather than enhanced.

Here is a link to it on Flickr.