A plaque in memory of murdered schoolgirl Sarah Payne is to be unveiled ahead of the third anniversary of her death.

The plaque will be fixed to a tree in front of the field on the A29 near Pulborough where her body was found.

It will be put in place prior to July 1 - the third anniversary of Sarah's abduction.

The permanent memorial follows discussions between Sarah's grandparents and West Sussex County Council.

It will replace a makeshift one made by members of the public by the side of the A29.

The council controversially removed the memorial of poems and toys last October because it was feared accidents were being caused by drivers slowing to see the shrine.

In a statement, Sarah's grandparents Lesley and Terry Payne said: "In the three years since Sarah's tragic death we have been overwhelmed by the kindness shown by people at this spot through the toys and flowers that have been left there.

"However, we feel that this plaque will be a far more appropriate memorial to her and we would like to thank everybody who has been involved in making it.

"It will be a permanent but discreet reminder for those people who wish to continue to pay their respects.

"We would ask that no more gifts are left on the ground or the tree, as they may detract from the plaque itself and still distract passing motorists."

Chief Inspector Martyn Underhill, one of the Sussex Police officers who helped bring Sarah's killer to justice, has also expressed his support for the memorial.

He said: "We welcome this plaque as it may help reduce accidents at this location and is a more fitting tribute to Sarah."

A county council spokesman said: "Everyone was deeply moved by what happened to Sarah and the distress that it caused her family.

"We are very aware of the expressions of sympathy that have been generously exhibited by the many people who have left flowers and toys at the scene.

"Unfortunately, these have proved to be a distraction to some drivers and we welcome this alternative, which has the support of Sarah's family.

"Hopefully, and in the best interests of road safety, people will respect the family's wishes not to leave toys and other articles at the scene in future."

The plaque is being designed and made by, amongst others, students from the nearby Brinsbury College.

The cost of some of the materials and artwork is being met by the British Safety House Association, a volunteer organisation set-up following the tragic abduction and murder of Sarah, whose aim is to provide emergency places of safety for children in distress.

Sarah disappeared while playing near her grandparent's home near Littlehampton during a visit from the family home in Surrey.

Her body was found dumped in the field after a 16-day search.

Her killer, paedophile Roy Whiting, was jailed for life in December 2001 for her abduction and murder.