GRETNA residents took it upon themselves to clean graffiti off a sign welcoming visitors to their town.
The Welcome to Scotland sign opposite the Old Toll Bar was caked in paints and stickers.
Following a lack of action from Dumfries and Galloway Council, Kirsten Herbst-Gray and Heath Hampson decided to clean it up themselves.
However, they are still hoping for some professional input to clean up the back of the sign.
The lack of council communication regarding the sign has sparked outrage locally.
Alex Thompson, chairman of Gretna and Rigg Community Council (GCC), said: “The entrance to Gretna is an absolute disgrace.
“It has been totally neglected by the council, the grass and weeds are shocking, not a flower to be seen and until today, a filthy old sign.
“We as a community feel completely let down and ignored despite regular emails and calls for help.”
And he called for help revamping the main Gretna playpark, adding:
“Our main playpark has been left for months without several pieces of usable equipment due to needing repairs. We have been promised that it is being dealt with for months.
“Our only other play park in Gretna is in a state of disrepair as well. Broken equipment, worn safety surfaces and neglect. People are actually taking their children up to Springfield to use their playpark.
“We feel our area is not getting our fair share of money spent in it. Now the kids are on the school holidays and looking for something to do, most of the park equipment is broken.
“If D&G has not got the manpower, just please give us our share of the funding and the GCC will make sure all the work will get done.”
However, Annandale East and Eskdale Councillor Archie Dryburgh this week confirmed the renovation of both Gretna parks.
He said: “I can advise that equipment is being ordered for the park at Central Avenue – I have received a quote earlier today and will be placing an order this week.
“The Prefab Park is also going to be receiving some new equipment in the near future, funded with developer contributions.”
