NEW 20mph zones have been unveiled in two areas of Lancaster this week.

The new zones, clearly marked by signs designed by local schoolchildren, have taken effect in the Skerton and Ryelands areas of the city.

The new 20mph zones are being introduced by the city and county councils and is said to benefit all road users, especially children, in urban residential areas.

It is hoped that the move will change the culture of the motoring public and help make speeding socially unacceptable.

Coun Cllr Nora Ward, Lancashire's highways and transportation cabinet member, said: "The County Council is committed to providing 20mph zones wherever possible in residential areas.

"It is clear that there is a great deal of support across Lancashire for this kind of initiative."

"I am certain that the work we are doing now will be rewarded by reduced casualties in the future."

Skerton Coun Cllr Niki Penney added: "People across Lancashire have been calling for 20mph limits in residential areas and I am delighted that the County and City councils have worked together to make it possible here.

"By cutting speeds in built-up areas we can make a big difference to the safety of all road users.

"The aim of the limits is to make drivers aware that they are entering an area where there is likely to be vulnerable road users such as children and elderly people."