The theft of roadside signs was posing a risk to road users

Opportunist thieves were using rogue vehicles and yellow reflective jackets to stop on the hard shoulder pretending to be workmen and then removing signs.

A registration scheme was introduced, meaning every vehicle working on the motorway network has to be registered and display an identification sign.

Now the Highways Agency say the project may be rolled out across the country.

Instant check

The Highways Agency said the theft of roadside signs and electrical cabinets was costing more than �500,000 per year in the North West, as well as posing a risk to road users.

Since the introduction of the scheme on the motorway network in Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire, more than 2,000 vehicles identification signs have been issued.

This project by the Highways Agency has been a big stride forward in improving network security Ch Insp Ian Lomax

The police can instantly check the authenticity of all vehicles parked on the hard shoulder by accessing a computerised registration system.

Andrew Winstanley, from the Highways Agency, said: "We worked closely with Greater Manchester Police to devise a scheme, which would help combat the problem and allow the police to check the authenticity of vehicle and contractors.

"The North West project has been highly successful."