Page:UK Traffic Signs Manual - Chapter 7 -The Design of Traffic Signs 2013.pdf/82



The traditional fingerpost design as shown in figure 7-5 should be used only on unnumbered rural roads where traffic speeds are low (see para 3.3).

The sign uses Transport Heavy capital letters, with an X-height between 40mm and 60 mm. Lower case letters with an initial capital may be used as an alternative, but not on a sign that has other place names all in capitals. Where lower case letters are used, the recommended minimum X-height is 50 mm.

The letters are always black on a white background. Signs using letter styles to replicate pre-1960s fingerposts may be specially authorised on request.

The sign, illustrated in diagram 2141, may be based on the flag type direction sign without the border and chevron, or may be square ended. Where the sign has a pointed end it is recommended that the angle should be between 120° and 90°. The corners of the sign may be either radiused or square. The legend may be either flush with the sign plate or raised above the surface of the plate. A narrow black border may be added to the sign.

The sign should generally be mounted on a single post at the appropriate end of the plate. This is particularly important where the "pointing" end of the sign is square. A finial may be added to the post.

Ideally all fingerpost signs on minor roads in a particular area should be to the same design, and traffic authorities are recommended to adopt a single consistent style throughout, matching wherever possible any surviving pre-war examples.

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