FOLLOWING the recent storms potholes and cracks have opened up at an alarming rate on Dorset’s roads.

More than 1,000 issues have been reported to Dorset County Council’s highways maintenance team since January 1.

Andrew Martin head of the county council’s highways operations said: “The recent extreme weather has presented us with exceptional demand on our services but we have we have 35 teams currently deployed to address the numerous incidents and defects that have appeared in the recent weeks.

“These include pothole repair, ditch clearing, high pressure drain clearance and gully emptying.”

He added: “We aim to repair potholes that present an immediate hazard to motorists within 32 hours and all other defects within 28 days.

"With the present number of reports we are doing our best to keep to this commitment.”

Motorists are being urged to heed road signs and plan their journeys in advance.

Mr Martin said: “We have had a number of instances where people have ignored our warning signs, or even removed them, and driven into heavily flooded areas.

“Even if they don’t damage their vehicles, the waves they make while going through the water can end up washing into people’s gardens and even their properties.”

He added: “Signs are there for a reason, we would ask people to allow more time for their journeys at the moment and find alternative routes to avoid flooded areas.”

To report a highways issue click here, then click the report a problem link, or call 01305 221020 during office hours and 0845 0678 999 out-of-hours.

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