DRIVERS have been left bemused after new speed signs at an accident blackspot were installed without numbers.

The Highways Agency is set to enforce a 50mph limit with average speed cameras between Hare Green, Pellens Corner and Horsley Cross, but work is not likely to be completed until the end of the year.

Now confused motorists are asking why the speed limit signs were installed and then covered with grey paint.

Campaigner and district councillor for Great Bromley Fred Nicholls said: “I have had people coming up to me asking why the signs have been vandalised and asking if people don’t like them and I have to explain it was the Highways Agency.”

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: “The signs have been greyed out with spray paint because they relate to the permanent speed restriction which will only become enforceable once the work is completed.

“If we don’t cover them it would cause confusion and create a further hazard to road users.”