Scrubbing away at ugly graffiti

One of the more depressing sights in Jericho is the appearance of graffiti-usually in the form of 'tags', or signatures. These tend to proliferate: when one person damages a wall, others join in. It is important, therefore, for graffiti to be removed rapidly. However, clearing up this mess can be hard work, and expensive. The responsibility for removing it lies with the owner of the building. The Council will do the job, but charges around £60 a time. There are also greener options. The Council is now piloting 'graffiti packs' which include a solvent based on orange peel and sour milk, to be used by groups of volunteers. However these too are expensive so can only go to people who will be sure to use them. Our Community Beat Officer PC Colin Paine points out that spraying graffiti is a criminal offence. "I would encourage people to be vigilant and report the matter to the police. Especially where they actually see people spraying graffiti. As a crime in progress it should be reported via 999 and, subject to resources, it should get a rapid police response. Recently three young people were arrested with spray cans on their way to cause damage".