POLICE in Bishop Auckland have launched an investigation after graffiti was daubed on property in the town.

The graffiti appeared overnight on Tuesday and the main affected areas are the Woodhouse Close estate and properties around Cockton Hill Road.

PCSO Jamie Pitt said: "Garden and house walls, garages, fences and vehicles have been targeted and some of the wording is very offensive.

"We would urge anyone with information about this matter to contact us.

"There may be people whose property has been targeted and they have yet to report it, so we would encourage them to do so."

Call PCSO Pitt or PC Mark Pheasant, from the Bishop Auckland neighbourhood policing team, on 0345-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

Three men aged 18, 21 and 22 have been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and bailed pending further enquiries.