Conservative candidate James Morris' election posters defaced with Hitler moustache

James Morris, who is defending the Halesowen and Rowley Regis seat, has dozens of the blue plastic posters dotted all over the constituency.

Vandals have even taken to step ladders to deface posters tied to lamp posts way above reaching level.

Mr Morris told the Express & Star: "It's a shame that some mindless individuals have decided to vandalise my posters.

"It's a pity that they have to resort to this when we should be focussing on the issues of the campaign: securing a brighter future for Halesowen & Rowley Regis, creating more local jobs and skills and protecting local health services like Rowley Regis Hospital."

Chancellor George Osborne, who was in Cradley Heath yesterday visiting Westley Plastics in Gawne Lane, with Mr Morris also waded into the attacks.

He said: "If all the political opponents and others can do here is deface a few billboards it tells you they don't have an argument.

"If you look at James' record here he has worked so hard for this constituency he has put Halesowen and Rowley Regis on the map in Westminster. His jobs fairs have helped many people into work and off the dole. That partnership of James Morris as a great local MP and David Cameron leader a strong majority government will continue to deliver for this area. We have a clear plan for working people. "

Labour councillors in Halesowen have also accused Mr Morris of exaggerating the work he has done in the constituency and taken credit for work they have done.

Mr Morris accused the party of trying to score 'cheap political points' and denied any wrongdoing.

Mr Morris won the seat from Labour in 2010 with a majority of 2,023. Labour's candidate is former teacher Stephanie Peacock. John Payne is fighting the seat for the Green Party, Dean Perks is UKIP's candidate and Peter Tyzack is contesting the seat for the Liberal Democrats.

The seat is one of the key marginals both the Conservatives and Labour are trying to capture.