NEWS that a rainbow crossing could be coming to Worcester has sparked concerns from some that these could be difficult for guide dogs to navigate. 

Worcestershire County Council has agreed the colourful crossing could be created in Worcester - with it expected to be installed in the spring.

The move - in part to celebrate the LGBT community - was largely welcomed but some readers were worried about how guide dogs could cope. 

We asked Guide Dogs UK if it would be a problem.

A spokesperson from Guide Dogs UK: "Guide Dogs is working towards a world where no one is left out of life because of their sight loss.

"Bold white and black stripes or a solid black surface used at controlled crossings have been around for many years and is a consistent design that is familiar.

"Art can be used to enhance public areas and make spaces inviting to communities, but we feel its introduction needs to be done in a way that will not be at the detriment to disabled people including people living with sight loss. 

"For people with sight loss, crossings are essential to their orientation and mobility.

"To this end, we welcome the recent decision by the London Mayor to instruct Transport for London (TfL) to put a halt to any new colourful crossings for the next 12 months. 

"In this time, TfL will work with stakeholders to look at the potential impact of such crossing designs and identify any detrimental impact of colourful crossing designs on pedestrians including blind and partially sighted people. 

"Guide Dogs will be involved in this work. 

"We would encourage local authorities to engage with TfL regarding this review before introducing this type of design.

"We understand that several local authorities across the country have decided to follow the approach taken in London and are engaging with TfL in regard to the research being carried out."