A spate of tragedies on the A69 trunk road could lead to the installation of average speed cameras at notorious black spots.

Calls for road safety improvements have been heightened in recent years, following an alarming number of fatalities along the stretch between Hexham and Haltwhistle.

A study by Highways England has concluded that average speed cameras could be the key to slowing down traffic and improving road safety.

Cameras could go up between Hexham and Haydon Bridge, along the stretch past Bardon Mill and Henshaw and from Greenhead to Low Row.

A Highways England spokeswoman said: "We have carried out an initial study into the need for average speed cameras along the A69, and have identified sections where they would be beneficial."

Further studies will now take place to assess how work could be taken forward.

Meanwhile, the Government is progressing a plan announced by Chancellor Philip Hammond in last November's Autumn Statement, to upgrade two junctions on the A69.

Highways England said advanced design work was being carried out ahead of improvements at Hexham's Bridge End roundabout and at the Styford roundabout, near Corbridge, with construction work due to start in late 2019.