A self-styled Banksy imitator narrowly escaped imprisonment after transforming nearly 40 postboxes in Dartford into a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns. Danny Whiskin, a resident of Dartford, took it upon himself to revamp the traditional red postboxes, adorning them with various designs, including a pink and yellow tribute to Mr Blobby, the iconic Cadbury’s Creme Egg colours and logo, and even coating some in gold.

The 33-year-old embarked on his artistic escapades clandestinely, cruising around Dartford on his scooter armed with spray cans to redecorate the boxes multiple times. However, his endeavours came to a halt when a vigilant passer-by captured him in the act on mobile phone footage in Sycamore Road. Outraged by his actions, the footage was promptly passed on to the police.

Following the tip-off and the subsequent investigation, Whiskin was arrested in February, and his residence was searched. Among the findings were spray paint cans and clothing matching those worn by the person captured in the mobile footage.

Royal Mail first became aware of the vandalism on February 5 when 15 postboxes were targeted. Subsequently, on February 9, a member of the public witnessed Whiskin in action, recording him spraying a postbox gold. The mobile footage depicted him with a gold scooter and a black bag adorned with a skull logo.

Whiskin’s exploits did not cease even after his initial arrest and subsequent bail. He continued to embellish postboxes, this time with Mr Blobby and Cadbury’s Creme Egg designs, despite being under surveillance. Further incidents led to his re-arrest in April.

Appearing before magistrates, Whiskin admitted to causing criminal damage worth more than £5,000, as the cost to Royal Mail for repainting the vandalized postboxes totalled £5,700. Despite his extensive criminal record, the bench opted for a community order and a supportive package, considering his circumstances, including mental health issues and a challenging upbringing.

Whiskin was placed on an 18-month community order, requiring him to attend mental health programs, rehabilitation sessions, and thinking skills programs. Additionally, he must complete 100 hours of unpaid work and pay £2,600 in compensation to Royal Mail, along with a victim surcharge of £114. Given his financial circumstances, he will repay the court at a rate of £20 per month.