Anonymous bidder offers six-figure sum for Banksy artwork

An anonymous bidder has offered a six-figure sum to buy the Banksy artwork painted on the side of a garage in Port Talbot.

Art dealer John Brandler confirmed the buyer is 'ready to give the money' and would like the artwork to remain in Port Talbot.

Mr Brandler said he understood the artwork had become a 'liability not an asset' and discussion are progressing with those representing garage owner Ian Lewis.

He said the potential buyer would like the artwork to remain in Port Talbot, perhaps in a vacant shop unit, for the benefit of the local community. He said there is also an idea being discussed to set up a Banksy exhibition in the town.

Neath Port Talbot Council said in a statement on Tuesday that its priority was to "preserve and protect" the "exciting example of modern urban art" which appeared on steelworker Ian Lewis's garage in Taibach, Port Talbot, in December.

Mr Lewis previously admitted struggling with the attention the Banksy work had been receiving since it appeared before Christmas, saying: "It started off as fun, but now it's gone to stress."