"Often, the majority of symbols cannot be attributed to anything other than utility companies, using the markings to indicate where work is required." Police shared a guide of markings used by ...

With other utilities, the dots in circle symbol can represent the number of cables within a single duct. Even experts like Palmer say some of the markings left on pavements resemble "hieroglyphs".

Secret symbols chalked on the walls of homes ... People have been warned by police to look out for the markings which can also be used by utility firms to inform workers of a problem's whereabouts.

West Mercia Police said signs indicated work planned by utility firms ... and the real meanings of pavement symbols The symbols are actually ground works markings used by gas, electricity ...

With other utilities, the dots in circle symbol can represent the number of cables within a single duct. Even experts like Palmer say some of the markings left on pavements resemble "hieroglyphs".