Filthy road signs? This man has been cleaning them up – for free!

Southend’s road signs have been getting a much-needed makeover, thanks to one dedicated man with a brush and a mission. Liam Wildish, better known online as ‘Liam The Sign Guy,’ has been travelling across the UK, scrubbing away grime from neglected road signs—and he does it all for free.

Liam, a professional spray painter by trade, has gained a huge following on social media with his oddly satisfying sign-cleaning videos. What started as a small community effort has now turned into a nationwide project, with Liam visiting different towns and cities to restore visibility to road signs that have become nearly unreadable over time.

Liam’s process is simple but effective. He first sprays the sign with CitriClean, an eco-friendly cleaner that breaks down layers of dirt, grime, and algae. Once the cleaner has done its job, he uses a long-handled brush to scrub away the filth, revealing the bright, reflective surface beneath.

On Saturday, Liam tackled some of Southend’s dirtiest road signs, working at key locations including York Road, the A13, Hamlet Court Road, and Wakering Road.

The difference was immediate—once the dirt was stripped away, previously illegible signs became crisp and clear again, improving road safety for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Liam’s selfless work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Southend residents were quick to praise his efforts, with many calling on the local council to step up its maintenance of road signs.

“I’d happily pay him my council tax,” said resident Nick Norris. “Isn’t like we get much from that lot, is it?”

Chrissie Denny echoed the sentiment, saying, “I’ve noticed how many road signs are dangerously dirty and hard to read, or obscured by greenery, and wondered why the Council had done nothing about it. What a great example to others he is! Thanks from one grateful motorist.”

While Liam is doing his bit to clean up the streets, Southend City Council has reminded residents that they can report dirty or obscured signs via their official online form: Southend City Council Street Sign Report Form.