Banksy Spy Booth: Man Questioned Over Vandalism To Mural

A warrant to enter a Cheltenham house was issued yesterday and a man questioned about vandalism to Banksy’s Spy Booth mural which appeared on the wall of a house in April. Silver and red tagging was sprayed over the artwork two weeks ago, however, Tom Organ a professional art restorer has stated that the mural can be returned to its former glory.

Last week large drill holes were found around the work of art, a sign that someone had the intention of removing the mural altogether. Local police said that, “a potential criminal offence was in the process of being investigated evidence is being gathered and investigations continue.” The council earlier confirmed that no application had been received for listed building status for the house. Listed building consent is required from the local authority, before any work is done to the fabric of a listed property.

Gloucestershire Police said its officers were present when council officials went into the house but “purely from a public safety perspective” to ensure there was “no breach of the peace in the area”.

The Banksy mural has received international attention and has become a local tourist attraction. Businessman Hekmat Kaveh has offered a donation to buy the £1 million pound house to ensure the mural stays in Cheltenham.  Campaigners have been trying to raise funds to buy the house and keep the graffiti in-situ.

Top Photo: Art restorer Tom Organ image courtesy BBC

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