A mural painted on the wall of a Stirling city centre gym has been defaced days after the artist behind the work was apparently revealed.

Friday’s Observer reported that Glasgow-based urban artist Pink Bear Rebel had claimed credit for the painting on the wall of the PureGym building at the Craig’s roundabout.

It had depicted a man being lifted out of a shadowy line of figures by a woman floating above in a heart-shaped balloon and is in the style of the renowned street artist Banksy .

However, the words 'GRAFFITI ART CULTURE NOT FOR SALE' has been sprayed on the wall near the painting which has been covered with black paint.

The mural was covered up in protest at the owners’ decision to try and sell the building for £2.2million

The words appear to be a comment on the decision by the building’s owners to try and capitalise on the mural, its popularity and possible links with Banksy, by selling the building.

Earlier this month, the Observer reported that the building in Upper Craigs was to go on the market following numerous enquiries about the mural.

Owners Edinburgh-based property investment company SRA Ventures, have put a price tag on £2.2m on the building which currently houses PureGym.

The Pink Bear Rebel claimed responsibility for the mural last week

Their property agents Graham + Sibbald had also said that they had received “a deluge of offers” for the property since the appearance of the striking mural.

The valuation was believed to be linked to the assumption that the work was of renowned street artist Bansky.

It is unknown who is responsible for defacing the painting.

Street artist Pink Bear Rebel claimed responsibility for the 'Banksy' artwork

Pink Bear Rebel returned to the scene last week to tag the mural in order to “clear up any confusion” over its ownership.

The Observer has approached the Pink Bear Rebel for comment but received not even a grunt or roar of indignation over the defacing of the painting.

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