THE cost of removing graffiti and repairing vandalism in Witney almost doubled in the last year.

It cost Witney Town Council £9,964 in 2010/11, a rise from £5,260 the previous year, to put right damage to its property.

And a further £700 has already been spent this year. None of the figures include labour costs.

Damage included smashed perspex in bus shelters, graffiti and broken equipment in children’s play areas.

Mayor Harry Eaglestone called for the public to help police tackle the problem.

He said: “I’m not happy about this at all. Vandalism is completely unnecessary and these people are stealing from the public. We could be using the money in other ways.”

He hit out at the theft of a £150 lifebuoy from Witney meadows.

Mr Eaglestone said: “It could cost someone’s life. It’s dangerous and stupid.”

Thames Valley Police was not available for comment.