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Prior to the war, RS Clare on Stanhope Street in Liverpool were known for distilling tar. They later became known for an innovation used to date.

During the war blackouts were ordered following German air raids, which caused road accidents at night as motorists were forced to reduce their headlights down to slits. RS Clare invented a quick drying paint that would reflect light on kerb stones and road signs and would be visible to drivers in the dark.

The invention was pioneering and RS Clare went on to put down the first road markings with its paint in Sloane Square in London. They were painted on the entrances to the square – alternating black and white.

It was a success: collisions were reduced and the company took their innovation around the country.

Location: RS Clare, 8-14 Stanhope Street, Liverpool L8 5RG
Image: RS Clare laboratory, courtesy of RS Clare