Council chiefs emphasis the signs are not speed cameras

Redcar and Cleveland Council was among a handful of areas to pilot the signs, nicknamed Smiley Sid because they also smile at drivers sticking to the limit.

The signs have been damaged by vandals in the past.

Now vandals have damaged a sign days after it was put up at Liverton Mines and another was stolen by thieves using bolt cutters from Majuba Road, Redcar.

'Mindless vandalism'

Council cabinet member of strategic planning, development and infrastructure, Eric Empson, said: "We're talking about a total of �6,000 damage, and that's no laughing matter.

"If anyone can give me an explanation as to why such mindless vandalism has occurred, I'd be delighted to hear it.

"The only reason I can think of is that these idiots believe it's a form of speed camera. Of course they're not."

The council used the signs for a trial period and then reintroduced them last August. It says they have helped to reduce drivers' speeds.

Mr Empson said: "We did have one stolen right at the start of the exercise but since then thankfully they have been welcomed and respected.

"We will, of course, be repairing the damaged sign and replacing the stolen one - unless the misguided people who stole it have the good grace to return it now they know exactly what they're for."