A MAJOR graffiti clean-up operation on the streets and buildings in East Cambridgeshire has resulted in more than 700 pieces of artwork being cleaned up in the last three years. Two thirds of the graffiti removed last year was done within two weeks of it

A MAJOR graffiti clean-up operation on the streets and buildings in East Cambridgeshire has resulted in more than 700 pieces of artwork being cleaned up in the last three years.

Two thirds of the graffiti removed last year was done within two weeks of it being referred to the East Cambridgeshire Graffiti Removal Team.

The scheme is a partnership between East Cambridgeshire District Council and the National Probation Service which organises work parties of offenders to remove the graffiti.

In the last six months four people have been arrested in Ely for writing graffiti and criminal damage of this type has been given priority.

The scheme organisers work closely with the police, Ely and Soham CCTV system and the local schools to try to identify offenders early.

Bob Andrews, from The National Probation Service, said: "This is an excellent project that helps offenders to become involved in something very positive which benefits everyone in society. Offenders take a lot of pride in making sure that all the graffiti is removed and doing a first class job."

If you would like to know more about the East Cambridgeshire Graffiti Removal Scheme free service, log on to www.eastcambs.gov.uk and go through the 'community and living section' to 'crime prevention'.

If you are responsible for a property that has graffiti on it, you can simply download the Graffiti Project Indemnity Form, complete the details and return the form to the council which will arrange for the graffiti to be removed.

Alternatively you can request a copy of the form by contacting Julie Buck, on 01353 665555 or by e-mail at Julie.buck@eastcambs.gov.uk