POLICE have employed the creative talents of youngsters to help tackle the problem of speeding cars in an eye-catching way.

The sight of a small child walking a dog is one which would encourage many motorists to slow down in residential areas.

So when it came to addressing the issue of speeding in Newton Aycliffe police were keen to take advantage of this.

This month, officers have teamed up with Greenfield Arts in the town to stage workshops for youngsters to create road safety scarecrows.

The scarecrows, made from wire frames, newspaper and weatherproof glue, will be dressed as children and police officers and placed in locations across the town to deter speeders.

A similar scheme proved a big success in Toft Hill, near Bishop Auckland and it is hoped the scarecrows will prove equally effective when they hit the streets of Newton Aycliffe in the autumn.

PCSO Michael Hutchinson, who has modelled for one of the policemen scarecrows, said: “Speeding is an issue that is often raised at PACT (police and community together meetings), particularly in areas like Middridge and Woodham.

“There are signs up but I think seeing a child or police officer is more effective in making people slow down. It is also a reminder of the reason why it is important to stick to the speed limit.”

Greenfield Arts is a community arts centre connected to Greenfield Community College and children preparing to start at the school’s Newton Aycliffe and Shildon campuses have been involved with the project, working alongside professional artist Vicky Holbrough

Katy Milne, director of arts and creativity at Greenfield, said: “At Greenfield we believe it is important to forge links with the community. This project is a fantastic way to strengthen those links. The children will also get a sense of pride at seeing their work displayed across the town.”