Graffiti pulls down the appearance of an area almost faster than anything else, as city-centre shopkeepers in Brighton and Hove can testify.

That's why it's vital to have a policy of zero tolerance towards the vandals who are carrying it out.

The unsightly scrawls put visitors and locals off. They also increase the fear of shoppers about crime.

A concerted effort by police, the city council and traders has already helped reduce graffiti in areas such as the North Laine.

Police have released pictures of three suspects in the hope the public will be able to help trace them.

A few publicised and successful prosecutions followed by short, sharp sentences would be just the sort of warning that might make potential vandals think twice.