The picture, which appeared on a fire exit from the Globe Hotel's staff car park in the early hours of Monday, resembles the un-named artist's trademark style.

But in a brief e-mail exchange Pest Control - which is his only point of contact - said: "This is not by the artist Banksy. Thanks for checking."

The portrait of Shakespeare which has appeared in a doorway in King's Lynn (Image: BCKLWN)

It came after one expert also cast doubts over the provenance of the piece, saying it had flaws which would not be seen in a genuine Banksy.

Norwich-based urban art dealer Lee Webster said:........

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