Police are using hidden spy cameras to catch graffiti vandals in Shoreham town centre.

They have been installed at secret locations after buildings were daubed with spray-painted tags over the past few days.

Police there have already installed the covert cameras to monitor sites likely to be attacked.

Hidden cameras have already proved a success in Brighton and Hove, where they were used to successfully prosecute three graffiti louts.

The most high profile was Richard Jay of Holland Road, Hove, nicknamed Bouncing Doughnut after his distinctive tag.

He was caught and fined £500 after police released spy camera pictures of him spraying a wall off Western Road.

Shoreham police will use similar miniature spy cameras in a bid to catch those behind the latest attacks.

Inspector Chris Drew said roads affected included Brighton Road, Western Road, Rosslyn Road and Hammy Lane.

He appealed to the owners of buildings affected to take photographs of the damage and then paint it over immediately before calling the police.

Mr Drew said: "We also want parents to check their children's bedrooms for spray cans and signs of graffiti activity.

"We are already using covert cameras in the town to identify those responsible. Anyone caught will be charged and prosecuted."