A GRAFFITI tagger in West Kirby was tracked down and agreed to remove his own “work” after leaflets were distributed to householders.

The spray-painted name tags are unique to individuals and, after the culprit was identified, he removed the graffiti himself following a “restorative practice” meeting at which the effects of his actions on the community were explained.

Wirral Council’s targeted youth support services and anti-social behavior team have been carrying out these sessions alongside Merseyside Police.

Around 250 leaflets were distributed in problem areas including Westbourne Road, Banks Road and Hilbre Road in West Kirby, asking for help identifying tags.

Councillor George Davies, cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: “Graffiti is a blight on communities, and something which residents regularly cite as a major concern.

“Partnership work between Wirral Council and Merseyside Police has made a real impact in this area.

“The point of restorative justice is that it develops the community’s ability to manage conflict by repairing the harm done and building an understanding of the negative effects graffiti can have on residents.”

When council officers contacted Virgin Media to report an instance of graffiti on one of their business locations, the company got behind the campaign by providing £500 for the production and distribution of leaflets to tackle the problem in their area.

Neal Walshe, Virgin Media's statutory and regulatory support manager, said: "We are delighted to be working with Wirral Council to combat the menace of graffiti.

“We are convinced that our joint efforts will bring a significant improvement to the local environment."

To report graffiti or to have it removed, dial Wirral Council’s “It’s Your Call” telephone number 0151 606 2020.

And you can report graffiti online by visiting www.wirral.gov.uk and searching for "graffiti."