CCTV is to be installed next to a Banksy mural in Finsbury Park after it was defaced with white paint.

The graffiti, in which splashes of green paint on a white wall give the impression of foliage behind a pollarded tree, with a stencilled figure holding a pressure hose beneath, appeared in Hornsey Road over the weekend.

Images shared on social media yesterday morning (March 20) showed two streaks of white paint in one corner of the mural.

Islington Council said it was “sad” to see the artwork defaced, and that it is now discussing “future solutions” with the building’s owner to protect it.

Fencing has already been put in place around the mural and council patrol officers have been making visits to the site.

A spokesperson for the council has now said that CCTV is currently being installed.

They added: “This is a really powerful piece, which highlights the vital role that trees play in our communities and in tackling the climate emergency.

 "Culture is a powerful way to tell meaningful stories, and we very much hope that the piece, which is still fantastic, will now be left alone for people to enjoy.”