Local residents persuaded the youngsters to account for their actions by grabbing a paintbrush and repairing the damage to six stairwells.

The culprits were joined by peers and other residents after the council confirmed it would not be able to paint the walls again until 2006.

Fallow Hill Residents' Association chairman Andy Francis, 36, said: "We've got the youths involved because it's a total mess and they're the ones who have made it. Hopefully it will discourage them from wrecking walls in the future and make them look after the place a bit better.

"We pressed their parents to rectify what they have done and they're quite willing to participate. Kids don't have much to do round Fallow Hill and this is a chance to get them doing something useful.

"They're a good bunch of kids and they all seem up for it."

A dozen youngsters aged from six to 17 began the work on Wednesday with the aim of finishing the clean-up operation today (Friday).

The scheme is the start of an initiative to improve the estate and get more amenities such as picnic benches.

Mr Francis added: "It's disgusting at the moment. There's a stench from dumped rubbish and from people who have used the stairwells as a toilet.

"It needs the co-operation of the tenants and we're hopeful that the painting will just be the start. It's small changes that make the big difference."

According to the district council, which provided the paint, brushes and trays, the graffiti could not be washed off because it had been burned on with cigarette lighters.

Estate supervisor Pat Taylor said: "They've allowed it to get into this mess and a lot of the teenagers who have caused the trouble are turning out to put it right. It makes them aware of their own surroundings.

"This is a great initiative and we're pleased the tenants are getting their act together. "