OFFICIAL-LOOKING stickers marking 'dedicated cannabis zones' have been going up around Brighton.

But the city is not about to legalise pot smoking - and the council has been quick to deny any link to the campaign.

The stickers, which include the Brighton and Hove City Council logo, state "Designated Cannabis Zone".

"The possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use has been decriminalised in this area."

They have been going up around the Level and in other parts of the city, and the council says "many people are taking it seriously".

But police have been taking the stickers down and the council says they are "fake, of course".

A council spokesman said: “These fake signs are running on social media and have been spotted across the city in areas such as The Level.

"It’s a nice try by someone - but nobody should be fooled.

“The police are in the process of taking them down, and if you see one please let them know.

“Anyone affected by substance misuse should contact safeinthecity.info for help and advice or contact a reputable drugs counselling group.”

Sussex Police said: "We have been made aware of these posters and will remove them as and when we come across them."