Many graffiti artists are strongly against tagging, an expert has told councillors.

Brighton and Hove City Council environment officer Matt Easteal said there was a clear division between those who considered themselves artists and those who festooned the city with indiscriminate tags.

Tory councillor Geoff Wells agreed, saying there was a tasteful decoration on the wall of the old Jaycee furniture factory in Woodingdean, whereas there were eyesores in the city centre.

Members of a scrutiny board today heard there had been a big drop in city centre graffiti following a campaign against it.

Labour councillor Alison Hermitage said quick action against the taggers often deterred them from re-offending. She was pleased when graffiti she saw on a wall off Ship Street was removed almost immediately.

Labour councillor Gwenda Beishon said dog walkers, who were often out with their pets at hours when taggers did their work, could help in reporting their activities.