GRAFFITI is being cleared up after night-time attacks at Poundbury in Dorchester.

District council workmen and Poundbury beat officer PC Jim Crocker launched the operation after vandals daubed obscene pictures and words at 18 spots on Prince Charles's urban development.

Inspector Les Fry of Dorchester Police has vowed to crack down on the yobs responsible and appealed for help.

Insp Fry said: "This was particularly bad with obscene drawings sprayed on walls and insulting messages about an individual.

"It is not acceptable and we're determined to find out who did it and take action.

"We need information from the public that will lead to the arrest of these people."

The targets included an electricity sub-station and houses. It follows a spate of previous graffiti attacks in Poundbury.

Mayor of Dorchester David Barrett said: "I would urge anybody who knows anything or has seen anything suspicious to contact the police.

"Graffiti is unpleasant wherever it occurs. The people who do this are mindless morons."

The vandalism happened on Thursday night.

PC Jim Crocker said: "This offence is vandalism and is currently under investigation. We are making inquiries to see if we can identify whoever is responsible for it.

"These signatures or tags must be recognised by someone and we are appealing for witnesses or anyone who knows who signs their work like this to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 01305 222222.