Graffiti-spotters respond to campaign

From the archive, first published Tuesday 10th Apr 2007.

AN appeal to residents to report vandalised street signs across Castle Point has received an overwhelming response.

Neighbourhood Watch chairman Norman Crampton spotted more than 50 road signs daubed with graffiti or damaged by vandals.

Mr Crampton, of Barneveld Avenue, Canvey, got in touch with Canvey East ward councillor Geoffrey Coates and the pair pledged to tackle the issue.

Their appeal was carried in the Echo last month and, since then, more than 100 householders across the borough have reported damaged signs.

Contractors working for Castle Point Council and Essex County Council's highways department have now started the hard task of reducing the long list of signs in need of attention.

Mr Coates said: "The response I have had regarding the damaged or missing street signs has been very good.

"I have now had over 100 signs reported, including some from Benfleet, and have passed these on to the relevant authorities so that we can sort these out.

"I am pleased to report they have already started on the list to be rectified."

People who want to report more signs in need of repair can contact Mr Coates on 01268 515636 or e-mail geoffdcoates@aol.com