Mystery surrounds the origin of two seemingly innocent declarations of love, which have been posted in a seaside town.

While the two signs bear the same message, they have been posted in different locations and in different styles in Folkestone.

The message reads: "Lauren will you marry me? Ralph age 79."

The romantic gesture was painted on boarding at the town's new skate park, which is being built on Tontine Street.

The same message was also attached to fencing on the seafront, made from plastic cups.

A third declaration has also been spotted in Hawkinge. It is not known who is behind the messages, or if they are serious, a prank or pieces of artwork.

But there is plenty of speculation behind them on social media.

Pictures of the announcements were uploaded to Facebook's We Love Folkestone page, with dozens of comments appearing, varying from supportive and to others questioning the intention.

Comments included "Go on Ralph" and "Love this" and "Be more Ralph".

One post said: "We believe in you Ralph! Go on Lauren say yes! Only if you want to spend the rest of your life with him though."

But other people suggested it was part of a wider project, with one commenter saying: "I’ve seen this on a wall in south London this week."

A popular theory behind the signs are that they are connected to American designer Ralph Lauren, who turned 79 years old in October 2018.

One post said: "This is a Ralph Lauren promotion guys, Ralph Lauren is turning 79."

Another said: "It’s advertising. It’s been seen across the country" and another: "Definitely a publicity stunt by Ralph Lauren. 79 years old now."

There are currently no plans for a Ralph Lauren store in Folkestone.

Are you behind the signs? Please contact the Folkestone & Hythe by emailing folkestoneexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone