An image of a person escaping prison has appeared on the side of Reading Gaol.

The 'Banksy-like' image depicts a prisoner escaping with a typewriter in his hand.

Some residents believe the famous artist himself has visited Reading town in light of the campaign to save Reading Gaol.

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One resident thinks the image looks like poet Oscar Wilde trying to escape Reading Gaol.

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Oscar Wilde had been incarcerated in Reading Gaol after being convicted of gross indecency with other men in 1895 and sentenced to two years' hard labour in prison.

The history behind Mr Wilde has helped establish Reading Gaol as a historic landmark.

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Some residents believe the Bansky inspired artwork is there to help with the campaign to 'Save Reading Gaol'.

Toby Davies, artistic director for RABBLE Theatre in Reading, said the Bansky piece is "fantastic" in that it recognises the injustice done to Oscar Wilde. 

He said: "I've been working on Reading Gaol campaign and managed to get support behind from Hollywood stars.

"It's fantastic that Bansky has recognised Oscar Wilde for his poetic justice and the punishment he received for being gay. It's a controversial statement to the world." 

Not a fan of Banksy but if it is genuine and helps save Reading Gaol all is good.