'Banksy art work' loses out in Turnip Prize

11/12/2009

Two pieces of work credited to Banksy failed to take the honours in this year's Turnip Prize.

Held annually in the Somerset village of Wedmore, the contest was founded 11 years ago by Trevor Prideaux as a tongue-in-cheek alternative to the Turner Prize.

This year's winner, which was entitled Manhole Cover and consisted of a pair of large white underpants, was entered by a local woman under the pseudonym Frank Van Bough.

"She clearly has what it takes to be recognised in modern art circles," Mr Prideaux commented.

The 2009 Turnip Prize entries featured two pieces said to be the work of Banksy, although the fact that the enigmatic graffiti artist rarely takes credit for his work means some doubt remains.

However, Mr Prideaux told the Bristol Evening Post last month that Banksy has indeed been involved in the contest.

"We are delighted that he takes the Turnip Prize extremely seriously," the organiser said.