Three sister dailies splashed simultaneously on a new campaign to improve safety on a road which links their respective patches.

The Hartlepool Mail, Shields Gazette and Sunderland Echo launched their Safe A19 bid on Friday after covering “many tragedies” on the North East trunk road.

There have been 70 accidents in 12 months along the section of the road which links Hartlepool, Sunderland and South Shields.

Now the Johnston Press-owned trio are urging readers to sign a petition calling for an inquiry into its safety record.

Gavin Foster, managing editor of the three titles, said: “The A19 is an integral transport route for the communities we deserve in all three of our daily titles, the Sunderland Echo, Shields Gazette and Hartlepool Mail.

“There have been numerous calls for improvements to safety, improvements for commuters and improvements to the infrastructure which serves our business community. We have also had to report on many tragedies where the A19 has claimed lives. But still nothing has been done to upgrade the network.”

Gavin added: “Figures revealed last week showed the shocking extent of the safety record – with 70 accidents in 12 months on the stretch which serves our communities. And following two additional smashes this week, we are saying enough is enough and the Government needs to act.

“We are urging readers to join our fight and sign our SAFEA19 petition to force change. We are calling for an inquiry into the A19. Improvements to what is a shocking safety record and to enable the economic growth of our area are essential. The Government needs to act now and we hope that our readers voices to force them to sit up and listen.”