A POLICE investigation is underway after "evil" Islamophobic writing and Nazi symbols were found plastered around a popular dog walking spot in Baildon.

The xenophobic vandalism was spotted near the entrance to Ferniehurst Dell, and local garages, by resident Dean Gledhill, who brought the issue to light on a Facebook community group.

The graffiti took place just days before Holocaust Memorial Day and the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

The symbols and messages were also painted in and around a local junior football club's changing rooms.

The angry resident told the Telegraph & Argus: "A lot of lives were lost to stop this kind of evil and it has no place anywhere in modern society.

"Sharing such a message, in a place like Bradford which is vastly multicultural, is very dangerous."

He added: "With the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz next week it is even worse."

The post was met with horror from other local residents who condemned the graffiti.

MP Phillip Davies (Cons, Shipley) described feeling "disgusted" by the malicious symbols.

Mr Davies said: "I was absolutely disgusted to see this graffiti which is completely unacceptable. I hope the police catch the culprit."

But in times of hate, the community banded together with Abacus Cleaning company heading out to the woods late in the night to remove the hateful words.

Residents expressed their gratitude to the good samaritan including Mr Gledhill.

He said: "Abacus Cleaning did a great job last night in removing it.

"It shows there is hope."

Bradford Council and Mr Davies have also thanked the man.

Mr Davies said: "I would like to sincerely thank the local resident who cleaned it off. I hope we don’t see any repeat of this."

Enquiries are now being made to identify those responsible and anyone who can assist with information is asked to contact the Shipley Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 or via the contact options on the West Yorkshire Police website.

The reference number for this case is 13200041751. Information can also be reported via Crimestoppers.

A spokesperson for Bradford Council said: "While the Council condemns all forms of extremism and racism this is the subject of a police investigation and it would not be appropriate to comment while it is still going on.

"We would like to publicly thank the public-spirited resident who cleaned the graffiti, reducing the chance of it causing further offence."