GRAFFITI in Alcester could be cleaned up in a flash with a new chemical Stratford District Council is set to trial.

Until now, Alcester Town Council has scrubbed off any scrawls but the district council has agreed to take over the job in the New Year.

Environmental maintenance officer Matthew Austin said: "The chemical is considered the best product in Australia and is producing equally successful results in America, Canada and the UK.

"Endorsed by English Heritage, it offers an environmentally friendly solution which is non-destructive."

The Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, comprising police and local authorities and organisations, has provided initial funding for the chemical.

The free service will start on a trial basis and will be used on residential properties, not-for-profit community facilities, street name plates and other council property across the district.

Head of environment services Robert Weeks said: "The service is not ready yet as we are still training members of staff to use the new product but we are hoping to be ready in the New Year."

NTL and BT phone boxes will not be included in the clean-up because the council has not yet reached an agreement with these companies, although talks are ongoing.

The council hopes the chemical's use will be widespread as there has been positive feedback from organisations about it.

Mr Austin added: "Using this knowledge we should soon be able to push our own project forward and make recognisable improvements across the district."