A mysterious masked figure has appeared on a plinth in a city centre park.

The enigmatic character, which is being dubbed the masked painter, was spotted by residents in Victoria Gardens, Brighton. But almost as suddenly and as stealthily as the figure appeared, it had gone again.

Residents were baffled by its sudden appearance and both Brighton and Hove City Council and the nearby University of Brighton are unaware of where the figure came from.

One member of the public who saw the statue told The Argus he had a “double take” when he saw it.

Another reader, who sent in the above pictures, said: “I saw the statue and nipped home to get my camera.

“I’m wondering if it’s by Banksy.”