A TAUNTON youth has admitted a spree of graffiti attacks on commercial premises in Shepton Mallet town centre.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named, targeted the Market Cross and the prison wall this summer, Somerset Magistrates' Court heard.

He admitted nine charges of criminal damage by spray-painting on the night of June 19.

He pleaded guilty to causing £300 worth of damage to a property at St Peters Terrace along with two counts of damage to Simply Property Management and more to Lux and Twine Interiors.

He also spray-painted a wall belonging to Dredge and Male along with £200 worth of damage by spray painting the Market Cross.

He admitted causing £1,300 damage to a prison wall and two counts of damage to Mendip Council toilets. He also caused damage of £300 to a wall at St Pauls Mews.

He was released on unconditional bail to appear at Taunton Magistrates' Court until January 15 when the youth faces other charges.