A home-made sign has helped deter thieves from targeting a flower bed.

Tulips started disappearing from the garden on the corner of St Michael’s Place and Victoria Road, Brighton, last week.

But since the message pleading with the person responsible to leave them was tied to the railings, the thefts have stopped.

Thieves with scissors took the first bunch last Friday.

They returned for the next two nights.

The building’s owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “What annoys me is that it was premeditated.

“It’s dispiriting to have scum of the earth ruin somebody’s hard work. It’s taken a good two or three years to get that bed established.

“Now it’s ruined because somebody wants a vase of flowers for a few days.”