American spelling of the word 'centre' which has appeared on a north Norfolk road surface has upset a local resident who says he cannot bear to pass it every day.

Workmen have painted 'TOWN C'TER' by the mini-roundabout at the junction of Mill Road and Overstrand Road, in Cromer.

The use of the US version of the word has infuriated Glenn Cossey, of Park Road, Cromer, who said he wants to see it changed.

'I know it seems pedantic and a bit trivial and I know language develops and evolves but I'm a stickler for grammar and spelling,' said Mr Cossey, 60.

'If it was written on a road in New York or Washington I wouldn't object but every time I pass these three-foot high letters misspelled in my home town I think: 'No, that's not right!' It really grates on me. It's a symptom of the erosion of standards. I know other people have noticed as well.'

A spokesman for Norfolk County Council said the wording was 'obviously a mistake.' He did not know how it had happened but said it would be put right, although it would not be carried out immediately as it would need to be 'factored' in around other work commitments.

The spokesman added: 'We value our American cousins - but not to this extent.'