Police have launched an investigation after a popular seafront tourist attraction was targeted by graffiti vandals over the weekend.

Phrases including "f*** your house" and "help the homeless" were scrawled on the side of the Upside Down House in Brighton on Friday night, while a blue penis was also spray-painted on the floor nearby.

One person, who lives in the area, described the act of vandalism as “mindless and destructive”.

The graffiti was removed on Sunday.

Sussex Police have now launched an investigation into the incident.

The Argus: The graffiti near the Upside Down House in BrightonThe graffiti near the Upside Down House in Brighton

The force said the graffiti also affected the Brighton Beach Cafe, near the foot of the i360, with officers believing the vandals struck between 11pm on Friday and 7am on Saturday.

Neighbourhood policing Inspector David Robinson said: "We completely deplore this type of behaviour and are actively investigating who is responsible for the criminal damage.

"We are working closely with Brighton and Hove City Council and, where there is sufficient evidence, we will look to prosecute.

"Anyone who witnessed the graffiti incident or has information about it can report information online or ring 101 quoting serial 564 of 06/03."