FLASHING speed signs have been installed outside two Tamworth schools to help encourage drivers to slow down and reduce the risk of accidents.

Wilnecote High and Glascote Heath Primary schools are among the first wave of 16 schools in Staffordshire to receive the devices ahead of children going back to school next week.

The '20 is Plenty' signs will be in operation during school run times to protect pupils.

They will also work to ensure that traffic flows are unaffected when children are in class, and during school holidays.

If the scheme, which runs until December, proves successful then signs could be installed outside schools across Tamworth, and throughout Staffordshire.

Staffordshire County Councillor Mike Maryon, Cabinet member for Road Safety, said: "We are determined to keep up our excellent record of road safety in the county and this ambitious scheme reflects that aim.

"In an ideal world, I would like to roll this system out across the entire county in one go but we have more than 400 schools and are facing incredibly challenging financial times.

"We are carefully balancing and prioritising the resources that we have to get maximum results for our communities.

"Residents have told us that this issue is a top priority. We have listened to their views and have taken action. Motorists also have a responsibility to reduce their speed when driving past schools and these speed indication devices will serve as a reminder to them to do so."