On 1 September the new vehicle registration mark format for Great Britain will be introduced.

The new system will replace the existing one, when the current "Y" prefix expires.

The new format will be made up of three elements:

A two-letter local identifier (intended to act as a memory tag and show where a vehicle was first registered), followed by a two figure age-identifier, then three random letters.

As people become familiar with the new format they will quickly recognise where a vehicle was first registered through the memory tag.

The age identifier will continue to change every six months - in September and March.

51 represents September 2001

02 represents March 2002

52 represents September 2002

03 represents March 2003.

This will clearly show the period when the vehicle was first registered.

The new format has been designed to make it easy for witnesses to recall details of the number plate and will help the police when investigating crimes involving the use of motor vehicles.

The DVLA Sale of Numbers scheme will continue and marks will be available in the new and existing format.

Kevin Delaney, of the RAC Foundation for motoring, said: "The new format has a clear and logical layout. It incorporates the best elements of the system motorists have known since 1963 and will quickly become a familiar aspect of motoring."

Chief Superintendent Gwynn Jones, of North Wales Police, said: "The police service is pleased that the new registration format incorporates our wishes on the issue of memorability and identification.

"We welcome its introduction as so much of our investigations depend on accurate witness information and recollection of events."

Christopher Macgowan, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive said: "SMMT believes the new system offers significant advantages over the old-style number plate.

"Consumers will benefit from being able to easily identify the age of the vehicle, and the local letter identifier will help towards reducing motorcycle crime."