A CLAMPDOWN has been launched to combat graffiti artists defacing public spaces.

The Greater Eston area’s multi-agency Joint Action Group (JAG) has drawn up a plan to paint over the problems in South Bank and encourage the public to raise the alarm if graffiti reappears.

JAG hopes to visit young offenders with street corner and school visits to encourage them to use their skills in a more conventional way.

Offenders that are court face instant fines.

Redcar and Cleveland Council’s cabinet member for community protection, Councillor Dave McLuckie, said: "One of the most important elements of regeneration is that people feel comfortable living in the area - it must be clean, tidy and safe.

"Graffiti damages that picture and this hard-hitting initiative won’t allow people who want to deface property and buildings to get away with it.

"And we’ve got the plans and the legislation to enforce that aim."

The four-day initiative, which began yesterday could be rolled out to other areas if it is successful.

Sergeant Mandy Savory, of South Bank Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "We are aiming to identify offenders, detect crime and prevent further offences.

"And we believe the issuing of fixed penalty notices and cautions serve as a good deterrent. The word is spreading and a number of prolific offenders have not been involved in the problem over recent months."

Anyone spotting graffiti should call 01642-774774.