Fresh graffiti has appeared in Calne, sprayed directly over markings that were reported to police last month.
One of the latest slogans, including the words “Trans Rights” and “F*** Reform,” has been daubed over the St George’s Cross graffiti in Phelps Parade - directly opposite a CCTV camera.
Another has appeared at the bottom of the old Co-op car park, covering earlier graffiti which read “We want our country back.”
The earlier St George’s Cross graffiti is understood to be part of a UK-wide spate of markings linked to Operation Raise the Colours, which has seen similar tags appear in towns and cities across the country.
Calne Town Council confirmed it has reported the new graffiti to Wiltshire Council, as the markings appear to be on property under its ownership.
In a statement, the Town Council said: “The Town Council, having been made aware of recent graffiti on public property, have reported it to Wiltshire Council for action. The Town Council work hard to provide and maintain public spaces for the benefit of all residents.”
Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways and Street Scene, said: “We are aware of offensive graffiti that has appeared in Calne town centre. Our contractors have been instructed to steam clean the markings as soon as scheduling allows.
“Our enforcement officers are authorised to issue on-the-spot fixed penalty notices to individuals caught graffitiing and will also report offenders to the police.
“If you see any graffiti, please report it via the MyWilts app. If you witness someone committing vandalism, contact the police immediately.”
PCSO Mark Cook said: “We have received a report of criminal damage in connection with unknown persons marking the ground in Phelps Parade and the lower area of The Pippin.
As with all reports of criminal damage, this will be fully investigated, utilising any available CCTV in those locations to help identify offenders.
”Any act of criminal damage is not acceptable in our town. This will likely incur costs to the local council to remove the markings.”
If anyone has any information which could assist us with our investigation into this matter, please call 101 quoting crime reference number: 54250129894
The original incidents were reported in August, when the St George’s Cross was painted on a wall in the town. Police at the time appealed for information and urged anyone who saw suspicious activity to come forward.
Photo credit L Randell
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