Police have said they are "horrified" after discovering swastikas daubed across signs that were encouraging people to stay home and protect the NHS during the coronavirus lockdown.

The symbols were found on yellow "car park closed" signs on the coast between Seaton Sluice and Whitley Bay in North Tyneside after they were vandalised overnight.

At least five locations were affected, including a sign that said: "Car park closed, stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives."

Image: The signs were close to the North Tyneside area

Image: Swastikas were spotted on signage telling people to protect the NHS

Teams from the local council were sent to clean off the symbols.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Whilst on patrol in the Blyth Road, Whitley Bay area, one of our special constables was horrified to come across two swastikas spray painted on to car park closure signs at the car park approaching St Mary's Lighthouse."


The force is urging anyone with information to send details to the "Report an Incident" section of the Northumbria Police website.

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