THE search is on to find a mystery artist who has put his own creative stamp on a tree.

Facial features have been etched into the bark of a tree in Furtherwick Road, Canvey- leaving residents both surprised and impressed.

Islanders are calling for the talented artist- dubbed ‘Barksey’- to step forward and make himself known.

They are also watching eagerly to see if he or she puts their skills to work elsewhere.

Richard Bannister, 40, of nearby Leigh Road, said he is delighted with the artwork.

He said: “I think it’s a very amazing and original piece of artwork, and I think the fact we don’t know who did it, all adds to the charm really.

“It’s like they are not doing it for recognition, but with the hope of making it look nice. It’s a bit like what has been done on the seawall with them murals, it was looking very grey before, and now it’s so much better.

“It has given something for people to look at, and it’s not doing any harm, so I don’t see why there couldn’t be more trees changed.”

Barry Campagna, Canvey Independent councillor for the island’s South ward, said: “I didn’t think it was real when I saw the picture on the internet. It might catch on and we could see a few of these pop up, which would be nice.”

Lynn Sadington, who was visiting the island on Tuesday, delayed her journey home to catch a glimpse of the work.

She said: “I live in Sussex and couldn’t leave until I saw this. I could definitely see this catch on as a tourist attraction.

“I had a bit of a walk round before I drove home to see if there was anymore.

“Well done tree Barksey.”