The plot has thickened surrounding a spelling gaffe on a Helsby street sign, with both Cheshire West and Chester Council and Helsby Parish Council denying any involvement in its commission or installation.

The misspelt ‘Brittania Road’ sign recently appeared directly opposite the correctly spelt ‘Britannia Road’ sign and has left residents and the councils scratching their heads as to where it has come from.

A Cheshire West and Cheshire Council spokesman said: “The signs for Britannia Road are undoubtedly misspelt – but were not ordered or installed by this authority or Helsby Parish Council.

“We have received several complaints from residents about the spelling but have so far been unsuccessful in attempting to trace the signage source.”

Although the mystery of the sign’s provenance may go unsolved, CWaC has said the sign will be replaced.

“Either way, we would agree with residents that the ‘Brittania’ misspelling cannot be allowed to remain and the signs will be replaced,” the spokesman added.

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