EXTRA 20mph speed zones have been introduced in Spennymoor to make the area a safer place for children and residents.

New advisory signs designed by youngsters have been installed near schools in four locations across the town.

The aim of the scheme is to reduce traffic speeds around the schools, which will improve road safety for vulnerable road users as well as making walking, cycling and outdoor play more appealing.

Michael Wilkes, Spennymoor AAP co-ordinator, said: “We therefore hope that these signs will remind road users that abiding by the 20mph speed limits is of huge importance, particularly in the areas of our community where schools are located.”

The advisory 20mph speed limits are on roads close to school locations in the Spennymoor area, close to Oxclose, St Charles, North Park and King Street schools.

These add to the previously completed schemes at Middlestone Moor, Tudhoe Colliery and Whitworth Park.

Pupils from the schools worked with illustrator Liz Millions to design the signs.

Mr Wilkes added: “The signs designed by the pupils look fantastic and really grab your attention.” The funding for the signs has been provided by Durham County Council elected members through Spennymoor Area Action Partnership (AAP).

Councillor’s Kevin Thompson, Geoff Darkes, Neil Grayson, Alan Gardner and Liz Maddison have provided £3,000 each from their Neighbourhood Budgets to enable the scheme to go ahead.