WILTSHIRE Police is appealing for information after a rise in the number of reports of graffiti in Swindon.

The Town Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team is appealing for the public’s help in identifying some of the offenders who are ‘tagging’ property in the Kingshill and Eastcott areas.

Temporary Police Sergeant Barry Reed said: “Over a period of three weeks we have been inundated with reports of tagging within the Kingshill and Eastcott area. 

“Much of this tagging has taken place late at night and has appeared on garage doors and house walls.  It has caused the owners of the property a huge amount of distress. 

“Not only is it defacing and damaging their property, but it devalues the area making it appear untidy and unpleasant for the Community. 

“The residents should not have to live in fear of their property being damaged by this vandalism.

“We are continuing to work closely with our partners at Swindon Crime Safety Partnership and Swindon Council with the prevention and detection of offences.

“The persons who are responsible are committing criminal damage - an offence which can carry a custodial sentence upon conviction.”

In particular, officers would like any information on offenders using the tag name of ‘ACE’, ‘NEVS’ and ‘CROP’.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, where information can be left anonymously, on 0800 555 111.