A POTHOLES hotline is being launched in a drive to improve a town's roads.

Streets in Middlesbrough have been ravaged by the exceptionally cold weather over the past two winters. From Friday, July 1, residents can call a freephone helpdesk during July, August and September to get the worst potholes repaired within three working days.

The crackdown has been made possible with £247,000 of additional Government funding aimed at winter road maintenance.

Councillor Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for tranpsort, said: "We know potholes are one of the biggest issues for motorists and one of the greatest causes of complaints.

"This three-month initiative will help to identify and repair many of the remaining problems.

"But we need the public's help, tell us where the pothole blackspots are."

The freephone pothole helpline number is 0800-0136001.