A NEW scheme to cut the number of speeding motorists on Bolton's roads has been officially launched.

Pupils from the Valley Community School in Astley Bridge joined Cllr John Byrne, Bolton Council's executive member for environmental services, for the launch near their school in Blackburn Road.

The Watchman scheme, funded by the Department of Transport, is being piloted in Blackburn Road and Derby Street, Daubhill, in a bid to cut drivers' speeds without resorting to speed traps.

A series of vehicle-activated signs flash and tell motorists to slow down if they are over the limit. If they do not drop their speeds, a camera flashes as they go past.

"They are not speed enforcement cameras but the equipment gives drivers an appropriate warning and reminder about the need to slow down," said Cllr Byrne.

As well as the cameras and signs in Blackburn Road and Derby Street, flashing signs are also being put up in Bridgeman Street and Grecian Crescent, Daubhill; Manchester Road, Great Lever; and Wigan Road, Deane.

Police say and additional benefit of the scheme is that the Watchman units contain an automatic number plate recognition system which can help them trace vehicles used in crimes.