THE signs aren't good for Cowdenbeath after "idiots" daubed graffiti across one of the welcome notices.

Darren Watt, the Scottish Conservative councillor for the town, and Cowdenbeath Environmental Group member Ally Dziennik expressed anger and disappointment at the latest spate of mindless vandalism.

The "worst affected area" is the welcome sign at the south of end of Cowdenbeath, which has once more been targeted with stickers and spray-paint.

Cllr Watt said: “It is extremely disappointing to be dealing with this issue again.

"It’s no coincidence these idiots deliberately vandalise the main road signs in and around town.

"Clearly they want maximum exposure and because it’s the first sign at the gateway of Cowdenbeath, they will certainly get it."

He added: "We have literally seen millions of pounds invested in our town in the last few years and have seen some remarkable improvements thanks to the collective efforts of local community groups and Fife Council.

"I will not stand idly by and allow vandalism and graffiti become the norm.

"I will continue to work with the local police, council officers and residents to tackle this worrying trend."

Mr Dziennik said: "It's absolutely disgraceful.

"Four signs have been spray-painted and some also have stickers attached.

"The large one as you come up to the 'Welcome to Cowdenbeath' on Bridge Street was thoroughly cleaned prior to judging for the Beautiful Fife competition."

Roads signs have previously targeted throughout the Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly, often with football or political messages.

Cllr Watt concluded: “I couldn’t care less what the overall purpose or agenda is for these foolish actions, what I do care about is the town in which I live and represent.”

The council's Mark McCall, service manager for Safer Communities, said: “Graffiti is a serious crime that impacts all members of the community and the removal of graffiti is costly to the council.

"We aim to clean graffiti as soon as possible after it is reported to us, particularly if it is offensive.

“We rely on the public coming forward and reporting graffiti. You can do this online at www.fifedirect.org.uk or phone 03451 55 00 22.”