COUNCIL workers have applied anti-vandal paint to a graffiti hotspot in Darlington.

It is the first time the paint has been used in Darlington. It has been applied to the end wall of a row of shops in Whitby Way, Branksome, after residents complained about graffiti in the area. Darlington Borough Council's Street Scene team has been repeatedly called out to paint over racist and offensive messages written on the side of shops.

The paint does not damage walls and will ensure graffiti can be easily jet-washed off. If the trial is successful, the paint will be used in other areas of the town.

Edwina Flowers, the chairwoman of Branksome Residents' Association, said: "The residents association has worked with the ward councillors to find a solution to the problem. I am delighted that Street Scene has come forward to help and that Branksome can be a pilot area for this paint."

To report graffiti, fly-tipping or littering to your Street Scene team, call 01325-388777 or email streetscene@darlington.

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