A councillor has called for politicians to lead by example in the war against graffiti vandals.

The words Bad Boy Virus and a picture which appears to be a smoking cannabis joint were painted on the wall of the Liberal Democrat office in Clacton's Old Road.

Conservative Peter Halliday, who represents the St John's ward on Tendring District Council, has called for the Lib Dems to lead by example "Several local people from the area have complained to me about the graffiti," he said.

"As a council, we have policy on this issue and are attempting to get local businesses on board to encourage the private sector to remove graffiti on their premises.

"Concern was expressed about the lack of businesses taking part in the programme. If we encourage the participation of local businesses, we as politicians need to lead by example.

"So come on Lib Dems, get the paint out."

The Liberal Democrats are part of the administration on Tendring Council.

Charles Harrison, chairman of the North East Essex Liberal Democrats, said: "Rest assured we will have it removed for the benefit of ourselves and the community.

"None of us should have to put up with such rubbish."