Man charged over 'Tracey Emin forgeries'

A man has been charged after an investigation into the alleged sale of forgeries of artwork by artist Tracey Emin.

It is understood the Metropolitan Police's arts and antiques unit was alerted after the items were sold on online auction site eBay.

Jonathan Rayfern, 32, of Manchester, will appear before magistrates next month.

Rob Pett, spokesman for Greater Manchester Crown Prosecution Service, said: "I can confirm that, having reviewed a file passed to us by police, the CPS has authorised that Jonathan Rayfern, 32, of New Sedgwick Mills, Manchester, be charged with fraud by false representation and dishonestly obtaining property by deception.

"These charges relate to the sales of forged artworks."

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Jonathan Rayfern has been charged with two counts of deception and five counts of fraud."

He will appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Thursday June 17.