Controversial graffiti artist Banksy has been sensationally identified as missing Manic Street Preachers guitarist, Richey Edwards.

Edwards disappeared in 1995 and was widely presumed dead after his car was found abandoned near the River Severn.

But the Welshman today admitted that his disappearance was nothing more than an ill-judged prank that "perhaps went on a little long".

"Admittedly I milked it a bit, but I hope friends and family will see the funny side," said Edwards. "I know I do".

The revelation sheds new light on the character of Banksy, who has long been hailed as a resident of Yate, near Bristol.

In addition, his year of birth has been given as 1974, while Edwards was born in 1967.

"Nicky Wire (Manic Street Preachers) planted disinformation about the Banksy character in order to perpetuate the prank" said Edwards.

"In fact, the name Banksy actually comes from the fact that my car was found near a bank...a river bank that is".

Edwards has since apologised to fans of the Manics, whilst also declaring his intention to rejoin the band and drop the Banksy character altogether.