Preston streets vandalised with Nazi swastikas and racist graffiti in 'completely unacceptable' act

Offensive graffiti scrawled on streets around Preston has been condemned as "irresponsible, offensive and unacceptable" by a city councillor.
By Sean Gleaves
Published 26th May 2020, 17:26 BST
Updated 26th May 2020, 17:46 BST
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Graffiti depicting Nazi symbolism and racist slurs on Eldon Street bridge has been reported by local residents.

Further instances of racist vandalism has also been found at Winckley Square, Orchard Street, and Stocks Road.

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Pav Akhtar, Preston Labour councillor for Plungtington, has branded the vandalism as "irresponsible, offensive and unacceptable", adding "symbols of racism and genocide have no place in Plungington or Preston".

He added: "I’ve covered up the Nazi symbols and anti-Black slurs as they’re objectionable to most in the community of Plungington, where I was born and raised, who have an understanding of our country’s history against Nazism.

"Given the very recent commemoration of Victory in Europe Day, they’re also offensive to the millions of those British and Commonwealth soldiers who risked, and in many cases lost, their lives fighting for freedom from fascism."

Preston City Council say they received a number of complaints about the graffiti and reacted quickly to remove it.

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Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council, said: "We have received a number of complaints about offensive graffiti in the city. I am pleased to say our team have reacted quickly and it has now been removed.

Offensive graffiti scrawled on streets around Preston has been condemned as "irresponsible, offensive and unacceptable" by a city councillor. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)Offensive graffiti scrawled on streets around Preston has been condemned as "irresponsible, offensive and unacceptable" by a city councillor. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)
Offensive graffiti scrawled on streets around Preston has been condemned as "irresponsible, offensive and unacceptable" by a city councillor. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)

"Racism and messages of hate have no place in Preston and I am grateful to those who came forward and reported this abhorrent graffiti as our city has a proud tradition of standing against all forms of prejudice.

"I’d urge anyone who sees something similar to report it to us so that it can be taken care of."

Lancashire Police have also confirmed they are investigating the "completely unacceptable" graffiti, and are working with the council to remove it.

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A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "We are aware and are investigating. Completely unacceptable.

Swastika graffiti Eldon Street bridge in Plungington, Preston. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)Swastika graffiti Eldon Street bridge in Plungington, Preston. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)
Swastika graffiti Eldon Street bridge in Plungington, Preston. (Photo by Pav Akhtar)

"We have liaised with the council to have the graffiti removed."

Anyone who has any information about the vandalism can contact police by calling 101.

Alternatively, you can report it via their website HERE.