A permanent anti-graffiti coating will be applied to the end wall of a row of shops in Whitby Way, Branksome.

Darlington Council's clean-up team has been repeatedly called out to paint over racist and offensive messages daubed on the side of the shops.

The paint, which does not damage the walls, will ensure any graffiti can be easily jet washed off.

Edwina Flowers, the Chair of Branksome Residents Association, said: "This has been going on for so long but now any graffiti can be quickly and cheaply removed.

"The Residents Association has worked with the ward councillors to find a solution to the problem and I am delighted that Branksome can be a pilot for this paint."