IT has more than 16,000 online members who declare independence from the UK on Facebook.

Now it seems the People’s Public of Brighton and Hove movement has been busy erecting official signage that welcomes residents and visitors to the city above a major dual carriageway.

The sign was spotted over the southbound carriageway of the A23 on Tuesday.

Thought to be the first official piece of signage from the republic, the move follows plans for a constitution, passports and national anthem.