Protective perspex has now been put up in front of the new 'Banksy' artwork which appeared in Turnpike Lane.

Workman were today seen putting the screen over the new graffiti, which appeared on the same wall from which the ‘Slave Labour’ artwork was removed.

There has been speculation the new stencil of a rat holding a sign saying “Why?” may be a response to the removal of the original piece, which is due to be sold at auction tomorrow.

Rats have been a subject for the street artist in the past, which has led some to believe he has been back to Turnpike Lane.

The original image of a child making Union Jack bunting appeared on the wall in Whymark Avenue in May last year and was removed and put on an online auction by US-based Fine Art Auctions Miami.