Man told to stop cleaning filthy signs by council

Warwickshire County Council said it could not support Cory Poynton's work as it was dangerous

A man who scrubbed filthy road signs until they were gleaming has been told to stop by a council.

Cory Poynton, 27, started cleaning dirt-covered signs in Warwickshire a few weeks ago after noticing them across the county.

Since then, more than 3,500 people have reacted to his Facebook post that shows the results of using detergent and a cloth in his spare time.

However, Warwickshire County Council has since told Mr Poynton that it could not support his work because cleaning close to roads put him in "considerable danger".

In an email to Mr Poynton the council said: "It is really pleasing to see you taking a positive approach to your wellbeing, and also the community in which you live in.

"I am assuming that you do not have the training or experience of working on the highway, which puts you at even more risk," the council added.

Mr Poynton said that the council's response was "very disappointing" considering his work not only improved the community but also helped him get outdoors and feel less anxious.

Cory Poynton started cleaning road signs as a way of helping the community and improving his anxiety

The BBC contacted Warwickshire County Council for a comment about its message to Mr Poynton, it provided a statement which said: "We have looked at this carefully following contact by Mr Poynton about the work that he is undertaking cleaning signs.

"Unfortunately, the county council cannot support him in an official capacity, as we are worried about him putting himself in danger whilst working close to roads and have informed him of this."

Mr Poynton said he would happily clean more dirty signs in his spare time

On Facebook, more than 3,500 people reacted to Mr Poynton's post showing the results of using detergent and a cloth in his spare time.

"I see dirty signs all the time so I thought it’s about time someone such as myself takes action - otherwise, who will do it?" he said.

Users on Facebook praised Mr Poynton for being a local "hero" who did "tremendous work" to keep roads safe.

"An unsung hero. But you know what? There should be a song about Cory the Sign Shiner," one commenter said.