Drivers did a double take after highways officials changed dual carriageway signs – to support a contestant from X FACTOR.
Electronic signs on entry to the northbound lanes through the Tyne Tunnels flashed up the message ‘Vote Lola Saunders’.
Lola, of East Boldon, South Tyneside, has made it through several rounds of the live TV show after she was brought back as a wildcard by Louis Walsh.
Stuart Sutton, operations manager at TT2 Limited which runs the tunnels, said the signs would override the message if there was a need for important notices for motorists.
He said: ”It’s great to see Lola flying the flag for the area. She keeps getting better, week on week and we wish her the best of luck for the competition.
“We are happy to support Lola using the electronic signage, at times when it is not required for traffic management, and encourage others to back her.
“It is important to assure motorists that the system automatically overrides community messages should the signage be required for its primary purpose of traffic management and driver safety information.”