The artwork, which Banksy has titled "Game Changer," features a child playing with a nurse doll wearing a face mask and cape. Figures of superheroes Batman and Spider-Man can be seen in a wastebasket on the floor.

The hospital has, with the approval of Banksy, entitled the piece "Painting for Saints," according to a spokeswoman for UHS. It is in reference for the city's local Premier League football team, which is affectionately known as "The Saints."

The BBC reported that the artist included a note for the hospital that read: "Thanks for all you're doing. I hope this brightens the place up a bit, even if its only black and white."

UHS did not immediately respond to a request to confirm the message that the artist left for the hospital.

Banksy confirmed that is his artwork after he posted it on his Instagram page.

Even Banksy is working from home during the lockdown

UHS chief executive Paula Head showcased the new work in a tweet. It is framed and is temporarily on display at UHS.

"So proud to reveal this amazing piece of art Painting for Saints, created by #Banksy as a thank you to all those who work with and for the NHS and our hospital," Head tweeted. "An inspirational backdrop to pause and reflect in these unprecedented times."

At least 30,076 people have died with coronavirus in the UK, an increase of 649 from the day before, UK Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Wednesday.

The number of people in the UK who have tested positive for the virus stands at 201,101, and there are 13,615 people in hospitals with coronavirus, which is down from 13,922 from the day before.