Possible Banksy artwork appears on seafront
George Carden/BBCBrighton is already the original home of the Kissing Coppers artwork by Banksy, but now people are wondering if the artist is behind a new mural on Hove seafront.
The artwork, which depicts a police officer spray-painting a love heart, is believed to have appeared on Monday near Palmeira Square.
James Peak, a self-confessed superfan who hosted The Banksy Story on BBC Radio 4, said the only way to verify the mural would be to look at Banksy's website or social media to see if he posted the artwork.
He added it was reminiscent of the Kissing Coppers mural, but said it may turn out not to be Banksy's.
George Carden/BBCThe mural had already caught the attention of residents walking and driving by.
"I was driving along the seafront and I saw it and thought, is it genuine? I'm not sure. But if it is, it will get mobbed", said Nick Davenport, who lives in Hove.
Jack Giles, who lives nearby, added: "I think it's amazing, we don't know if it's a Banksy, but I think it's incredible. It looks the same style."
Local resident Kristina Miklos added: "I really love it, it's a shame I didn't see it being made as I was here all afternoon.
"I wish it was real, but I don't think it is."
George Carden/BBCStewart Moysey, who also lives nearby, said: "I think it brightens up the wall and is better than graffiti. The balustrade is a bit tatty as it is, I quite like it."
The other mural, which is on the side of the Prince Albert pub near Brighton Railway Station, was painted in 2004 but had to be removed in 2011.
It was later sold at an auction in 2014 for £345,000.
The mural currently on the side of the pub is a replica covered behind a plastic screen.
Banksy's PR team has been approached for comment.