YOUNG drivers are being urged to "stay beautiful" and avoid being scarred for life in a hard-hitting road safety campaign launched across North Yorkshire today.

The message will be promoted on the back of buses and on radio to encourage less experienced drivers to consider themselves and other road users.

Backed by the county council's road safety team, the campaign includes radio messages and the phrase "Your Driving - Stay Beautiful" on more than 150 buses.

Almost 600 drivers aged 17 to 25 are injured in crashes in North Yorkshire every year.

Last year, 19 drivers were killed and 100 suffered serious injuries: many will be physically and mentally scarred for life.

Road safety officer David Lindsay said: "I'm sure some people will think the new image is upsetting but this is the reality of road crashes and all drivers would do well to remember this."

The campaign is backed by road safety charity Support and Care After Road Death and Injury (Scard).

Scard helps families who have been bereaved or had family members injured in crashes.

Spokeswoman Carole Whittingham said: "It's about time we faced the reality of road crashes. They are horrendous experiences that devastate the lives of families and friends forever.

"Crashes don't just happen, they are caused. If this campaign prompts drivers to honestly reassess their own abilities, and gets them thinking about their actions, then it will definitely be a step in the right direction"

Support from Scard is available by calling its helpline on (01484) 401622 between 9am and 9pm every day.