Banksy’s famous artwork The Drinker has been stolen. The adaptation of Rodin’s Thinker was taken from art collector Andy Link’s home address on 1 June.

A spokesperson speaking on behalf of the statue said that a reward was being offered for its safe return:

“The Drinker is valued at over £200,000 plus, and the owner of the piece had recently considered selling it through different avenues. Several buyers had shown interest, including Banksy’s people, whom were in preliminary stages of negotiation with other parties offering five figured numbers!!!

“It’s been reported to the police authorities and we [are] currently examining CCTV, plus awaiting more crucial feedback from neighbours in the area. The perpetrators struck over the weekend but left behind the signed plinth and traffic cone hence having only a third of an original piece of art - this greatly depreciates the value!”

It’s not the first time The Drinker has been in the hands of robbers…in 2004 it was pinched by a Marxist group calling themselves AK47. Anybody with information is asked to come forward.

www.picturesonwalls.com