It might not be the Mona Lisa but there is one portrait that is proving just as covetable for both Helston and Porthleven.

Helston Town Council has, in its collection, two portraits of Second World War hero Wing Commander Guy Gibson.

Porthleven Town Council wants the portraits, arguing that Dam Buster Gibson is a “son” of the port, with his family having lived there and he spending many childhood days there.

To add further complication, the two portraits are in rather different conditions. The original was, at some stage, slashed (through vandalism) and a second was commissioned in order to have a “good copy.”

Rumour has it that at least one previous request for the portraits proved fruitless. Indeed, it is claimed by some that while Helston was happy to hand over the damaged painting, they were less keen to part with the “good one.”

The problem originates from when Helston and Porthleven were as one, forming a borough.

Following their split in 1981, the assets were shared between them – but for some reason the painting (and subsequent copy) was never transferred.

So just which council has most entitlement? It has all the makings of a Bertolt Brecht play.

When Porthleven’s councillors met last week their feelings were clear.

Andy Wallis – who is a slightly tricky position as being both town councillor for Porthleven, but also a Cornwall Councillor working alongside Helston – said: “Maybe the portraits and memorabilia would be better served as being in Porthleven, as Guy Gibson is the son of Porthleven.”

He backed mayor Daniel Williams’ suggestion that Porthleven ask again for the return of the paintings and other artefacts, in order for them to “come home.”