VANDAL attacks on pro-independence signs are sweeping the region.

And several other giant YES boards have been stolen as the referendum debate enters its final month.

Yes supporter Scott Blair from Peebles hit out after two signs in the Northgate area of the town were targeted. And a similar nationalist campaign logo was smashed up in Walkerburn.

Vandals also damaged a horse box with a ‘Vote Yes’ sign last week at a rural location south of Jedburgh.

Mr Blair, who helped paint and erect many of the signs around the Borders, said: “This is something that is happening to signs belonging to both sides of the debate all over the country and it is unacceptable. Both signs in Peebles have now been replaced - I hope they remain up and the campaign continues with peaceful debate.” Tweeddale SNP councillor Willie Archibald is counting the cost of the vandalism. He told us: “That sign was ripped off my property with a degree of force because it weighs about 25 kilogrammes. Around £1,000 of damage has been caused to my wall.

It was secured to the wall by a joinery contractor, this is unsettling and reprehensible, it smacks of desperation.” Across the Borders police are investigating a spate of incidents after signs, supporting a yes vote in September’s referendum have been the target of criminal damage, vandalism and theft.

Thieves stole three ‘Yes’ signs in Berwickshire earlier this month.

And the giant sign in Walkerburn was smashed up before being thrown onto the A72.

One woman, who we agreed not to name, witnessed the village attack. She said: “This time they have surpassed themselves, it’s getting really dangerous.

“They battered the sign with a mallet or sledgehammer to get it out, and then threw it onto the A72. I actually heard them but when I got out they had made off. We managed to get the sign back off the road and over the wall to avoid what could potentially have been a really nasty accident.” Police have been informed of the various attacks and thefts.

Tweeddale MP David Mundell hopes the incidents will stop ahead of the September 18 vote. He said: “I am very disappointed to hear it. No signs have been attacked elsewhere.

“Vandalism, just like personal abuse on social media, has no part in this campaign.” Yes Scottish Borders chair Calum Kerr is appealing to supporters on both sides to play fairly.

He told us: “It’s important that people are able to show their support without fear of criminal damage to, or theft from, their property.” Police Scotland enquiries are ongoing and they have asked anyone with information to call 101.