A phantom framer who covertly fitted golden picture frames around Teddington street signs said they did so to "prove that even the most mundane things can be beautiful."

Parking permit signs and street signs in Field Lane, Broad Street and Adelaide Road were spotted yesterday with the new frames, as well as a neatly framed sign urging people to clean up their dogs’ mess in Cambridge Road.

Richmond Council and Transport for London both denied having anything to do with the framing and Twitter account @PhantomFramer was set up yesterday evening by someone claiming to be the mastermind.

Speaking to the Richmond and Twickenham Times, the anonymous Phantom Framer, said: "I have decided to beautify Teddington to make people happy.

"Teddington is beautiful town and I wanted to prove that even the most mundane things can be beautiful."

The Phantom Framer said they were delighted with the reception their craft has received, adding: "Teddington folk have style".

But the framer said they were saddened some of the frames had been removed since they were installed.

The Phantom Framer, who said they see themself as a "gilded superhero" said it was not hard to measure and fit the frames without being spotted.

They said: "I have a good eye for these things and am rather stealthy. Although my craft is beautiful I am super fast."

When asked if they would continue to place frames around Teddington, the Phantom Framer replied: "I am unsure as yet but the people of Teddington seem to like them so it would be a shame to let them down.

"You'll be sure to know if the Phantom Framer strikes again."

What do you think of the golden frames? Leave a comment below.