A HAMPSHIRE artist left a surprise piece of work at Basingstoke hospital last week, to mark International Nurse's Day.

The Banksy-style image of a nurse was positioned outside the hospital by street artist Hendog, encouraging people to leave a message of thanks for NHS heroes.

Posting on Instagram, the artist - whose previous work includes a mural at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester - said: "Happy international nurses day! I left this at Basingstoke hospital. The piece is unfinished so if your in the area and you want to leave a thank you go and write your message on it.

"This past year has massively impacted nurses everywhere. And though there hard work and sacrifice, they have massively impacted our road back to normality, and saved so many lives. Thank you for all you have done."

The poster inspired many contributions, including from Hampshire Hospitals CEO, as well as Basingstoke's MP Maria Miller, who wrote on Twitter: "This wonderful piece of art celebrates the amazing work of the North & Royal Hampshire Hospitals staff over the past year. Thank you Hendog."

You can view more of Hendog's art at www.instagram.com/hendog_art