Graffiti sick residents in Brighton have formed a group called Bridge Watch to keep London Road station bridge clean after it became a target for taggers.

The group was formed in partnership with London Road station to run alongside the work that the council already do to remove graffiti as part of the quick graffiti removal scheme.

Edward White, of Springfield Road, Brighton, said: “We are tired of the mess, tired of the flyposting and tired of the graffiti. If the council can’t do it all, lets help.”

Brighton and Hove city council has supplied the volunteers with an endless supply of paint and materials to clear the graffiti on the footbridge.

Councillor Ben Duncan, Cabinet member for communities, equalities and public protection said: “This idea not only encourages residents to get more involved in their community, it also makes economic sense when resources are tight, and we cannot always deal with graffiti as quickly we would like.”

A rota has been organised by the group of residents so that the graffiti can be painted over as soon as it appears and signs have been put up to discourage vandalism.

Angie Bonnel, of Ditchling Rise, Brighton, said: “I go over it every day and it really sets me down when I see graffiti, it’s like someone leaving a horrible message.”

The group was formed with the help of resident associations including London Road area Local Action Team and Ditchling Rise and Area Residents Association.

Sian Harris, of Southdown Avenue, said: “It’s fantastic, it makes such a difference to your mood when you see the bridge clear. It’s such a lovely station it’s a shame for it to be defaced.”