GRAFFITI has appeared at locations in an area of Burnley which had been free from that type of vandalism for several years.

Police said that during the last three weeks 10 different locations have been damaged in the Brunshaw area.

The same graffiti ‘tag’ has appeared on bus shelters and telephone supply boxes between the top of Brunshaw Avenue and Lyndhurst Road and police are keen to trace those responsible.

The graffiti has been sprayed with yellow paint and appears to spell the word ‘ear’ alongside a stick man.

Coun Tony Harrison, who represents the Brunshaw ward, said: “The vandalism is a real shame.

The area has been progressing quite well over the past few years.

“I’ve heard that the council have cleaned off the paint soon after it was discovered but it’s very disappointing that this type of behaviour should happen.

“The community here has a very strong relationship with neighbourhood police officers through regular meetings and I’m sure that’s led to fewer incidents of anti-social behaviour.”

PCSO Chris Jackson said: "The area has been graffiti free for a number of years now.

“But this latest escapade has annoyed residents who have been working hard with the local neighbourhood policing team to make the area better.

“If anyone has any information or indeed if anyone knows who is responsible for this graffiti, I would urge them to contact police.”