NO signs were put in place to warn drivers of the pothole which incapacitated more than half a dozen cars last week because “there was no damage to the road or risk to motorists”.

The cost of last week’s carnage has come to light with motorists left to grapple with hundreds of pounds worth of damage to their cars after they hit a pothole around 5pm on Monday 25th September.

The destruction ranged from one and two burst tyres to extensive damage to suspension including broken wishbone arms and even wheels which were split in half.

In response to the story, members of the public claimed the pothole had been there for up to two weeks before it took out numerous cars within the space of an hour.

Welsh Water, who was responsible for the repair as the pothole was caused by a leak on a water main, were aware of the pothole five days before it took its toll.

A spokesperson said: “A leak near the B4293 road in Monmouthshire was reported to us on 20th September, and a repair planned by our teams. At the time of our initial inspection, there was no damage to the road or risk to motorists.

“While we were preparing for this repair, damage to the road worsened over the weekend and we then received a further report on Monday, 25th September.

“There was a delay in responding to this report until Monday evening, and we apologise to these motorists and any customers for the inconvenience this caused.”

Thankfully for those involved, Welsh Water is working to provide compensation for the damage done.

“Our teams have now completed repairs and we are liaising with these motorists affected, including any compensation arrangements.”