A new speed monitor has been installed at the east end of Avoch village on the Black Isle after local residents raised concerns.
The initiative has been jointly funded by Highland Council’s ward discretionary fund, Avoch and Killen Community Council and Avoch Amenities Association.
The community council said it had received numerous complaints from residents about the speed of vehicles traveling through the village.
This section of the village is within the restricted 20mph zone, which is busy with children walking to school, elderly pedestrians and parked cars.
Sarah Dunton, chairwoman of the community council, said: “The speed limit was being ignored and despite the presence of Police Scotland on occasions, it was obvious something else was needed.
“The west end of the village already has a speed monitor in place which although is not fool-proof, does make drivers more aware of their speed as they are driving into the village.”
The new monitor will go one step further by not only displaying the vehicle speed, but will thank the courteous drivers, whilst requesting speeding drivers to “Slow Down”.
It was considered that this interactive communication with drivers was more influential than the traditional smiling or sad faces.
Ms Dunton added: “We hope the new monitor will have the desired effect on driver’s speed through the village and for all drivers to be respectful and courteous to other road users who are respecting the speed limit.”
