Banksy-style mural of 'small boat' surfaces under Inverness Friar's Bridge

A stark new image has appeared beneath a bridge over the River Ness which has been likened to a Banksy.

The new nautical artwork surfaced on the wall of the Friar’s Bridge in the last few days and has prompted local speculation that it could be by the famous graffiti artist, whose identity remains unknown.

The mural has spawned contrasting feedback from passers-by. Some observers see it as a sad reminder from history while others a reflection of a pleasant day on the river.

Some suggested it might be a historical reference to the exodus of Scots to the Americas.

It may also be the St Kildans leaving their islands for the last time. Others believe it might be a modern reference to the controversy surrounding refugees crossing The English Channel.

The artwork is already peeling away due to water damage

STV News has learned that the river image of a group of fishers by the bridge emanated from a 19th century photograph.

Hugh Nicol, who owns the nearby Riverside Art Gallery said: “When I saw the image I thought ‘I’ve got a card in the gallery with something similar’ – a fisherman operating from Friar’s Shott, which is just 100 yards or so up the river.

“It was actually when I went and picked it up, I thought ‘somebody else has seen that as well’, because it’s the exact boat that’s in that old image.”

The Banksy-style addition is the latest in a series of creative ideas to adorn Highland structures.

An A9 bridge was used as a canvas for graffiti.

In April, Dingwall roofer Gary McIntyre, a Banksy fan, unveiled his version of one of his hero’s magic, embellishing a slated Inverness rooftop with his take on ‘Girl With Red Balloon’.