HISTORIC fingerpost signs recently restored by volunteers are among the victims of rural vandalism in Somerset.

A number of other road signs, traffic cones and grit bins have also been targeted.

With the cost of repairs ultimately falling on taxpayers, Somerset County Council is urging anyone with information about the crimes to report it to the police.

Since November 25 signs in the parishes of Upton, Elworthy, Nettlecombe, Monksilver, Chipstable, Clatworthy, Brompton Ralph, Lydeard St Lawrence and Treborough have been sprayed with graffiti, ranging from blackouts to offensive symbols and slogans.

Traffic cones and grit bins – purchased by parish councils and filled with salt by the county council to help communities clear ice and snow in winter – have also been set on fire and destroyed.

The vandals have obscured stop and give way signs, changed speed limits, and defaced historic fingerposts recently restored by community-minded volunteers.

Cllr John Woodman, the county council’s cabinet member for Highways, said: “It is incredibly sad to see graffiti on our iconic fingerposts which have been in place for decades and lovingly restored by volunteers.

“It is also alarming to see grit bins destroyed, important safety signs obscured and speed limits changed with spray paint – mindless actions which put road users at risk.

“This is not a victimless crime – ultimately as taxpayers we all end up footing the bill for needless repairs and it diverts precious funds which could otherwise be spent on improving infrastructure.

“If anyone knows anything then please contact the police immediately.”