Headline
Headline
Back to London, UK News

Banksy work stolen from gallery 'in 36 seconds'

London, UKLocal News

A Banksy print valued at £270,000 was stolen from the Grove Gallery in London in just over 30 seconds, according to Kingston Crown Court. Larry Fraser, 48, pleaded guilty to the burglary, while James Love, 54, denies the charges and faces trial. Fraser smashed the gallery's glass door and took a limited edition print from Banksy's Girl with Balloon series. CCTV footage confirmed the rapid theft, with gallery owner James Ryan noting the artwork's limited edition status of just 150 prints. The prosecution claims Love drove to the gallery and helped store the stolen print after its removal.

Night watchman Sukhvinder Singh described his shock when two men rushed into the property and took the artwork. He recounted their hurried behavior, stating they were only present for a couple of minutes. The trial continues, highlighting the increasing concern over art thefts and security measures at galleries.

Related Articles

London, UKLocal News

Gardeners unearth stolen phones left by snatchers

Volunteers at The Phoenix Garden in central London reunite theft victims with stolen phones buried in flower-beds. The garden's proximity to the West End makes it a target for thieves, who stash devices for later collection. Local police have increased patrols, leading to a 16% reduction in phone theft since April.

London, UKLocal News

About 150 firefighters at London warehouse fire

About 150 firefighters battle a significant warehouse fire in west London that has caused residents to report "huge explosions." The London Fire Brigade dispatched 25 fire engines to the scene, where three-quarters of the two-storey building is engulfed in flames. No injuries have been reported, but local residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke.

London, UKLocal News

Physio backs charity that helped her after accident

NHS physiotherapist Chloe Boobier, 30, suffered severe injuries after being struck by a taxi in February 2021. She credits Day One Trauma Support for aiding her recovery and now advocates for the charity, which aims to raise £30,000 to support others with life-changing injuries.