DRIVERS in Malvern are being urged to flag up potholes – in a desperate plea to avoid financial problems.

Chiefs at Worcestershire County Council say £60 million has been spent on road repairs in the last three years, and they fear a cold winter could wreak havoc on the budget.

Despite 33,000 potholes being filled in last year, sub zero temperatures could unearth more unsightly gaps in the roads.

County Hall is already striving to cut up to £100 million from spending by 2016 under a scheme called BOLD, which stands for Better Outcomes Lean Delivery.

The county has experienced some frosty nights this month and early indications suggest the winter will be colder than last year.

People are being encouraged to report potholes “as soon as they see them” so they can be repaired as quickly as possible.

Councillor John Smith, the cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “All the hard work and investment in our roads over the last three years have definitely paid off as we’re moving into winter.

“Our highways network is in a much improved state, which should mean easier journeys for travellers.

However we’re not going to be resting on our laurels as there’s still work to be done maintaining roads in good order and dealing with any fresh potholes and problems that arise.

“If you spot a problem, let us know – the sooner we know about it, the sooner we can come out and have it fixed.”

The authority has an online reporting system, www.worcestershire.gov .uk/reportapothole where drivers can alert a problem.

You can also upload images and track the status of the investigation at worcestershire.gov.uk /trackit.

There is free app available for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad or Android smartphones, which can be downloaded on the Android market site by searching for Worcestershire County Council.

The iPhone app can be downloaded by visiting the Apple Store and doing the same search.

Those without web access can call the Hub on 0845 601 2005.