NEW, traditional sign posts are popping up all over the Eden valley, thanks to one man's efforts to retain our highway heritage.

David Gosling is pointing the way forward in Cumbria with traditional cast iron road signs.

These cast iron signs have been part of our roadside landscape for generations, but during the 1920s and 1930s the Government endeavoured to standardise road signs that are now regarded as such an important part of our heritage.

Cumbria has many of its cast iron signposts still in existence and in recent years local interest groups have begun the task of restoring these important pieces of roadside history to their former glory. And David's expertise has been valuable in this mammoth venture.

David said: "Following experience gained as a volunteer restorer of a cast iron signpost at Lanercost, I realised that not only was there a strong desire among rural communities to see these roadside heritage landmarks restored but also that if they were to be successful in their desire, a good deal of expertise was required.

"Consultation with highways engineers and their agents confirmed the need for a detailed specification which could guide the restorers and ensure uniformity of result across the county.

"I offered to carry out a detailed documentation of the techniques, methodology, materials and safety data while restoring a second post at Banks Foot. This offer was accepted and following the successful restoration of the Banks Foot signpost the Guideline and specification for the repair, restoration or reinstatement of cast iron signposts was produced.

"Local groups wishing to restore their local signs were now being referred to me for advice and copies of the guideline were issued to ensure the correct procedures, materials and livery scheme were used for all projects.

"In January 2003, Signpost Restoration Limited was formed to enable effective restoration work to be carried out for those without the necessary expertise and to provide help and advice on a commercial basis.

"By the middle of May 2003 I was inundated with requests for copies of the Guideline and Specification document and inquiries from local interest groups indicated a desperate need for a skilled team to carry out the restoration work.

"Signpost Restoration carried out its first project in March 2003 and, by the end of its first financial year, had achieved a turnover of £30,000 from a financial investment of nil.

"The future success of Signpost Restoration Limited will depend of its ability to expand its range of specialist services and the willingness of local authorities and the county council to see these important parts of our roadside heritage restored and maintained."