A number of properties in the Stanhope Road area of South Shields were daubed with racist graffiti in the early hours of last Tuesday.

It is the third time vandals have struck within weeks in the same area, scrawling tags and racist marks – including the initials NF – which stands for far-right political group National Front – across walls, fences and back doors.

Today, Coun Olive Punchion labelled the recent attacks as "senseless" and "a crime which will not be tolerated".

Coun Punchion, chairwoman of West Shields community area forum, said: "We have an excellent community relationship, and it is particularly upsetting for people in the Biddick and All Saints and West Park areas to have racist marks scrawled over their doors and pavements.

"This is senseless vandalism. It will not be tolerated. I've spoken with the police who are investigating this crime, and the council's graffiti removal squad is responding very quickly to all calls.

"If residents would prefer to speak to me about any graffiti they encounter, I will report it on their behalf.

"The squad does an excellent job getting rid of these vile scrawls, but it is really important all incidents are reported so they can be dealt with as quickly as possible."

Detectives investigating the recent incidents have also condemned the attacks which have occurred on three separate occasions.

Detective Sergeant Phil Cleugh, of South Shields CID, said: "These are serious offences which are being rigorously investigated.

"We are aware of the kind of impact incidents like these can have on a community, and by working together with the council, we are doing everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.

"We would encourage anyone with information to contact us.

Simon Charlton, Neighbourhood Inspector for West Shields, added: "Incidents like these do bring communities together, as everyone is determined that those carrying out such acts are arrested.

"By working with the community and the local authority, I am convinced we are going to catch those responsible."

To report graffiti of any kind, call the council's customer contact centre on 427 7000 between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am and 1pm on Saturdays.

You can also report graffiti via the council's website here or report it online or to police on 08456 043 043.

* Three men were arrested in connection with racist graffiti on several South Shields roads last week.

A 19-year-old man and two 20-year-olds were later bailed pending further inquiries.