Police are investigating an increase in graffiti in a prominent part of Chippenham - just metres from the town’s spray art wall.

The wall was launched below the Gladstone Road bridge three years ago to allow street artists a place they can legally tag.

But in the last few weeks someone has instead tagged the nearby walls of the Bridge Centre and the wall opposite next to Lovers Walk.

Police are keen to identify the offender and are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch. One recurring tag is ODAR.

Inspector David Hobman said: “This is criminal damage not art and gives a poor impression of our town.

"These tags are appearing in prominent locations visible by motorists and pedestrians.

"It is particularly disappointing when the council have provided an area that people can graffiti that is only a couple of hundred metres from the main site of the tagging.

“I am sure people who use the street art wall would want to disassociate themselves from this tagging.”

Wiltshire councillor Peter Hutton said: “The recent increase in graffiti tagging around the town is very disappointing and sends out a very negative message about Chippenham to both local residents and people visiting the town.

“By working together with the police I am confident we will be able to identify the person responsible and continue with the number of positive initiatives that are supporting the town.”

Contact the Chippenham Neighbourhood Policing Team by calling 101.