A local authority has cautioned general election candidates and their agents over illegal fly-posting and graffiti in the lead-up to the forthcoming July 4 poll.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has issued a stern warning after reports of unauthorised political messaging on its street furniture.

This move comes after numerous reports and complaints from residents to the authority about unsightly posters plastered on lampposts, bus stops, and other public property.

This has also included graffiti outside St John’s Church in Blackburn and fly-posting covering and damaging material advertising Blackburn's Festival of Making on July 6 and 7.

The Blackburn with Darwen Council’s acting returning officer and chief executive Denise Park has written to candidates and their teams reminding them of the strict regulations prohibiting the posting of election materials on any council-owned street furniture.

She has clearly outlined the consequences for non-compliance, which include fines and potential legal action.

Posters removed from bus sheltersPosters removed from bus shelters

The Lancashire Telegraph has received several photographs of the fly-posting including one of posters for Workers Party of Britain candidate Craig Murray removed from a bus shelter.

Ms Park said: “Election agents must ensure their campaigns adhere to these regulations or the council will seek to take action.

“We have a duty to ensure a fair campaigning environment and prohibit the use of public property for political messaging.”

Election agents have been advised to restrict their campaign materials to authorised locations and ensure all volunteers are fully aware of the regulations.

Former British Ambassador to Uzbekistan Mr Murray said: "These posters are nothing to do with my campaign team.

"However if some of my more exuberant supporters have put them up I am not going to condemn them.

"Democracy is more important than tidiness."