An iconic symbol of British motoring has been consigned to the dustbin after Brexit forced a change on millions of UK motorists planning to drive abroad.

From the 28th September, cars driving in Europe will no longer be allowed to use the traditional GB sticker on their car, and will have to replace it with a UK sticker. The change, which is designed to placate the bureaucrats in Europe on the Northern Ireland issue, has incensed many classic car owners and motoring organisations.

While there is no exact list of financial penalties for non-compliance with the new UK stickers, a spokesperson did hint at some punishment: “From 28 September, British motorists travelling abroad will be legally required to display a UK sticker on their vehicle, in place of the old GB one. Failure to adhere to the new regulations may lead to refusal on entry and holidays ruined.”

The news will come as a blow to thousands of drivers who took Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps advice and changed their number plate to a GB rather than EU one in the belief that they would be covered. But the numberplate must now also include the UK abbreviation rather than GB.

“It might only be a matter of replacing two letters, but this is a significant change for drivers who in normal times take their cars outside the UK,” said RAC Spokesman Rod Dennis.

“Any driver with a GB sticker on their car now needs to replace it with a new UK one if they are taking their vehicle abroad.

“Drivers also need to remember that number plates featuring the blue band and letters 'GB' next to the European golden stars are also no longer valid.”

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