IT is the van that will hit the streets of Winchester and further afield to deliver road safety messages.

The specially designed van carries pictogram images in the shape of road signs representing reasons people are killed and injured in accidents on the road.

It was handed over to Hampshire Constabulary by Martins Peugeot in Easton Lane, Winchester.

The pictogram design on the van was created by police and partner agencies and the concept was called he concept is named 'Project Pictogram'.

The pictograms display messages of the ‘fatal four’ reasons people are killed and injured in car accidents.These are inappropriate speed, driver distractions, not wearing seatbelt and alcohol or drug impairment.

Police hope that the van which will be driven around the county and will also be at public events, will help 'nudge' road users into driving safely and carefully.

Hampshire Constabulary Road Safety Officer Sergeant Rob Heard, said: “I have been at far too many collisions where these four have been a factor in the collision.

“Many people have lost their lives unnecessary, causing heartache, and destroying families. Our key message is that 'it's not worth the risk'.

"The design of the van is powerful and when people see this vehicle, I want it to remind them of the risks we all face on the roads from those who speed, use their mobile phone whilst driving, fail to wear a seat belt or drink or drug drive.

"I am grateful to Martins Peugeot whose staff understand the importance of promoting road safety, and in doing so have supplied me the van to help raise awareness."