IT was delivered as a message of goodwill - a sign of a unique bond between two peoples separated by thousands of miles.

But this painting, held proudly by Lord Mayor of York Janet Greenwood, is now at the centre of an international controversy - and the people of York, Western Australia, want it back.

Australian journalist Frazer Guild travelled to the Minster city in January to present the work of art, painted by renowned Aboriginal artist Merle Narkle-Goodwin.

It was donated as a gesture to mark the 175th anniversary of the European settlement of York, WA, and to symbolise the Australian town's link with its bigger, and older, brother.

But a storm has erupted after the artist claimed the work had not been acknowledged by Guildhall chiefs. Now Ms Narkle-Goodwin wants her prized painting returned, furious that her efforts have been "snubbed by the Poms".

The painting shows the Australian landscape from the sea and rivers to the deserts, bush and tropical rain forest.

York, England, has been invited to join in next year's anniversary celebrations in the Australian town, but civic leaders here have also yet to respond to that "hand of friendship", according to the Antipodeans.

Today, City of York Council said letters had been sent to the artist extending the authority's "sincere thanks" for the gifts - and apologising for the delay in responding.

"Culturally, a gift of this nature is not given lightly or begrudgingly," Ms Narkle-Goodwin said. "It is the way Aboriginal people were treated at the time of the settlement so it is not a surprise. It is as if we do not exist."

Ms Narkle-Goodwin has exhibited all over the world, and her art is sought after by collectors in London and New York.

"We are the oldest culture in the world, and while we were displaced during white settlement, I though a gesture of goodwill during this 175th anniversary should have been acknowledged. It is from my private family collection and I just want it back."

But a City of York Council spokeswoman said: "Letters have been sent to the Commissioner of the Shire of York and to Merle Narkle-Goodwin extending our sincere thanks for the gifts and apologising for the delay in responding.

"Initially we didn't have any have any contact details for them and had to contact a third party to get the relevant information. We are absolutely delighted with the gifts and looking to forge further ties with York, Western Australia."

Updated: 09:37 Tuesday, April 04, 2006