16 January 2013 Last updated at 02:27 ET

Potholes 'fix me' pleas appear in Swanage

The paint and wording appeared on potholes around Swanage

Potholes have been circled with white paint accompanied by the words "fix me" in a Dorset town.

More than 10 of the markings are believed to have been added to Shore Road and other parts of Swanage within the last week.

Dorset County Council said such actions were illegal and the potholes had already been identified for repair.

Resident Robin Boultwood said he did not know who was responsible, but said the pothole situation was "ridiculous".

'No worse'

Martin Hill, routine maintenance manager, said the council had not received any enquiries about these potholes.

He said: "We have found several potholes in Swanage that have been marked in this way... and anyone caught doing it could be prosecuted.

"It's important to note that the roads in Swanage are in no worse state than the rest of the county or the country."

He said they were scheduled to be repaired within the next week.

Mr Boultwood, who photographed the pothole graffiti on Shore Road, said: "If anyone on a motorbike hit one, they'd be a goner."

"The roads have never been that good, but with all the rain we've had, bits have washed away. Let's hope the powers-that-be get the message."