RED flashing lights can now be fitted to the rear of breakdown recovery vehicles to give extra safety.

The move, approved by the Government, has been welcomed by recovery operators. Previously such lights were allowed for use only by emergency vehicles.

Richard Goddard, president of the Professional Recovery Operators Federation, said: "The use of red flashing lights is a vital safety concession for all essential roadside rescue and recovery workers.

"The industry must now work together to regulate the use of these lights, as well as implement robust standards and the best safe working practices."

The use of red flashing lamps by recovery operators is part of a Plan for Drivers published by the Government which amends legislation to permit breakdown vehicles to be fitted with rear-facing red flashing lights when recovering broken-down cars.

The change in law is not expected to come into force until 2025, but approved recovery operators can start using the flashing red lights now as an interim measure.

"This is excellent news - the independent recovery industry has been campaigning for this for years to keep our customers and recovery workers safe," said Lee Puffett, managing director of Start Rescue, one of the UK's biggest breakdown operators.

"It warns drivers there's a breakdown incident ahead so recovery agents and stranded families will be much better protected."

Chuks Oguibe who represents International Vehicle Standards at The Department for Transport, said: "The use of red flashing lamps will improve safety for recovery technicians and other road users.

"The Government is committed to improving safety for all road users, including ensuring recovery technicians have a safe working environment to operate and help get people moving again when vehicles break down."