motorists in Keighley will soon be able to display their patriotism.

New legislation will allow drivers to show a national flag and symbol on their vehicle registration plates.

Motorists could -- depending on their roots -- choose to display the Union Flag, Cross of St George, Scottish Saltire or Welsh Dragon.

The move has been largely welcomed by motoring organisations and vehicle showrooms.

Current regulations provide for the voluntary display of the European circle of stars and GB identifier on number plates.

But following public pressure, the law is being changed to accommodate the national flags.

Motorists who take advantage of the new facility will still be required to display a separate GB sticker when travelling abroad.

Announcing the move this week, Transport Minister John Spellar said: "The Government has decided to legislate to allow the voluntary display of national flags and symbols on vehicle number plates. It is what the people of England, Scotland and Wales have asked for and strengthens their feeling of national identity.

"We did have initial concerns about the ability of enforcement cameras to read the plates, but these concerns have been overcome through enhanced camera technology."

Richard Brigg, sales director at Walter C Brigg in Cowling, said: "It is very much customer choice. People already personalise their number plates in different ways so if they want a national flag that is fine. The uptake of the existing European-symbol plates is very low."

Robin Luscombe, at Colin Appleyard Cars in Keighley, agreed that the uptake of the Euro plates was extremely low. He added: "People might be more inclined to adopt plates carrying the national flag, but what about having the white rose of Yorkshire! That would probably be more popular."