Digital road images scheme for M6

Drivers in Cumbria will become the first in the North West to use road signs displaying warning symbols in place of words.

The new electronic signs, capable of using "pictograms", have been erected between junctions 39 and 43 of the M6.

Key words such as snow, accident and queue are to be replaced by internationally-recognised symbols.

The signs are in use on the M42 in the West Midlands and could be activated on the M6 by the end of the year.

Matt Sweeting, Highways Agency regional performance manager for the North West, said, "Pictograms are more conspicuous to drivers at greater distances than text, providing earlier warning of hazards ahead.

"Red warning triangles are an internationally-recognised hazard warning."