Police are investigating how thugs vandalised a historic Sussex windmill.

The windmill in Rottingdean was targeted over the weekend and local residents have since contacted Brighton and Hove City Council and asked it to clean it.

Geoff Rawlings, of Beacon Hill, Ovingdean, yesterday said: “I was walking my dog this morning when I saw it.

“The whole area is devastated. I just couldn’t believe that anyone could do that to the Rottingdean Windmill.

“It’s part of the backdrop of the Sussex Coast and someone has done this to it.

“It’s about 3ft big. It’s not discreet – it’s really in your face.

The Argus:

“It’s our national monument and has been there for hundreds of years and then someone goes and defaces it – it’s horrible.”

Sergeant Neil Durkan, of Sussex Police, said: “We have become aware of the graffiti and are investigating. We would urge anyone with information to contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 08000 555 111.”