RUMOURS are rife that Evesham could have been visited by an internationally-acclaimed graffiti artist.

Two pieces of artwork have sprung up in the town in the past week with both appearing to bear a strong resemblance to the work of the well-known street artist Banksy. The first sighting was made by Evesham resident, Laurence Fletcher, who spotted the artwork on a wall near the Cheltenham Road roundabout on the A46. Just a day later, Norton man Lynn Davies discovered a similar piece in the Old Brewery car park.

Mr Fletcher, of Charity Crescent, said: "I have read a couple of his books and have a big interest in him. I have to say that this is remarkably similar to his work - and if it isn't Banksy himself, then it is someone else with a lot of talent."

Both pieces of artwork see a hoody-wearing youngster spraypainting words on to brick wall. In one the youth is spraying the words Why Not? and the other reads What is Art? Mr Davies, of Kings Lane, Norton, said: "The first thing I thought was, is this a piece by Banksy? Although I wouldn't swear to it, this could very well be his. I enjoy his work as it is not just about art, it is about asking a question and politics. I feel that art has become a bit safe in recent years so he is a breath of fresh air."

Head of community services at Wychavon District Council, Phil Merrick, said: "Art is a personal issue and we recognise that many people will see this and like it. However, this is not the right canvas and while the council recognises the artistic quality of the work, it will have to be removed."