Graffiti featuring outlandish claims about famous figures has appeared across the West Denton neighbourhood of Newcastle, prompting action from the local council. The writings, found in an underpass and on walls, name celebrities including TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, EastEnders actor Danny Dyer, singer Rita Ora, and Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall.
Light-hearted but baffling slogans
While some of the graffiti included slurs, most were described as light-hearted yet baffling. Examples include 'Danny Dyer Smokes Parma Violet Vapes', 'Lorraine Kelly is barred from Wetherspoons for stealing cutlery', and 'Jessie J doesn't donate 10p to charity at the checkout'. Other messages read 'Rita Ora has the Lidl Plus App' and 'Stacey Soloman gives Joe a sticker for helping with the dishes'. One graffiti stated: 'Jade Thirlwall buys makeup from Poundland'.
White paint had been splattered over some phrases before the mystery vandal returned. The slogans, painted with a seemingly steady hand, have led to speculation about the culprit. One social media user suggested the graffiti could not have been done by a child, calling the phrases 'gems for people around 35 to 40'.
Council response and removal
Newcastle City Council said it is taking action to remove the 'unacceptable' paintings. Councillor Peter Lovatt, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local services, told Metro: 'We are aware of the graffiti in West Denton and have taken immediate action to ensure it is removed as quickly as possible.'
He added: 'This type of graffiti is unacceptable. It damages public spaces, blights our communities and creates an unnecessary cost to taxpayers through the resources required to remove it. It is a form of criminal damage and a recordable offence. Anyone responsible for vandalising property could face police action, including arrest and prosecution. We would urge anyone with information about those responsible to report it to Northumbria Police.'
The council encourages residents to report incidents via its Envirocall service on 0191 278 7878 or through the council's website, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to offensive graffiti.
