Appeal for folk to be vigilant as more road signs are turned

The Council is asking folk to be extra vigilant when out and about following the discovery that numerous roads signs have been meddled with in the West Mainland.

Roads staff were tasked from other areas of work to correct the signage between Finstown and Evie.

The signs that were tampered with were mainly warning drivers of hazards ahead – “beware of children crossing, give way, blind summit, bend ahead, speed and direction signs”.

John Wrigley, OIC Roads and Environmental Services Manager, said: “This has to stop, I genuinely fear that someone may end up being hurt as a result of this incredibly foolish behaviour. I would appeal to those responsible to think how they would feel if an accident was to happen as a direct result of a hazard sign not being visible.

“Whoever is responsible may think this is just a bit of harmless fun – but the signs are there for a serious purpose – to warn of potential danger ahead and ensure everyone’s safety – to turn a sign warning that children may be crossing is just madness. Please can everyone who is out and about on the county’s roads to be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious before it’s too late and we do end up with someone getting hurt.”

Mr Wrigley said there may be further signs requiring attention and he appealed for anyone who spots one to report the matter to the council’s Customer Services Team via MyOrkney, by calling 01856873535 or by email customerservice@orkney.gov.uk.

Anyone found tampering with them should be reported to Kirkwall Police by calling 101.