A TEAM of young engineers have invented a hazard warning system that could deter thieves from stealing lamps from roadwork safety barriers.

Shaun Dixon, Michael Hall, James Matthews and Sam Proud, all students at Wolsingham School and Community College, have been working on their project under the Engineering Education Scheme.

The scheme is designed to introduce sixth-formers to the world of engineering by giving them the opportunity to work on real projects.

The four Year 12 students have been working with gas pipeline company Transco to develop an anti-theft system after the company revealed that it suffered great financial loss due to the thefts of hazard warning lights.

The group's idea was to design the lights as an integral part of an interlocking barrier system, making them theft-proof as well as adding strength to the barriers.

Their idea was welcomed by engineering professionals when it was unveiled at Newcastle University last week.

Alec Breen, Transco network support manager, said: "It was really encouraging to work with these four very bright and enthusiastic young men who showed a lot of innovation to this tricky problem.

"It is very reassuring that young people are getting involved in engineering and thinking about it as a career. It needs this type of talent to build more of the things we all need."