Calls for action to repair potholes on Suffolk's roads have increased by 82% during the current financial year - the equivalent of 18,000 more requests.

The sharp rise, revealed in figures from Suffolk County Council, comes amid growing concern about the state of the county's roads, with some residents even employing black humour to try and raise awareness of the situation.

A spokesperson for the council's highways team, which is responsible for maintaining many of Suffolk's roads, said staff had completed 1,700 more pothole repairs during the 2023/24 financial year compared to the previous year.

READ MORE: Trinity Avenue Mildenhall 'worst in West Suffolk' sign

In total, more than 15,000 potholes have been repaired and more than 141 miles of road have been resurfaced during the last financial year, the equivalent of 34% more repairs to potholes.

The spokesperson said the rise in the number of pothole reports was related to the weather undermining the road surface.

She added: "Much like other local authorities during this time of year, the increased wet weather and occasional freezing temperatures results in a sharp rise in potholes.

Lowestoft Journal: The pothole graffiti in LowestoftThe pothole graffiti in Lowestoft (Image: Emma Scott)READ MORE: Morrisons hoping to sort potholes at Felixstowe store 'ASAP'

"Despite these challenges, Suffolk Highways has already completed 1,700 more pothole repairs when compared with the previous financial year.

"To help keep up with the demand, Suffolk County Council is investing more resource and trialling new ways of working."

The situation has given rise to a number of stunts by frustrated residents, including signs appearing in Trinity Avenue, Mildenhall, describing the street as 'Pothole Avenue' and the 'Worst Street in Suffolk'.

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Meanwhile in Lowestoft a series of phallic images were painted around potholes, which were labelled 'offensive and useless' by a council.

Vandals targeted Victoria Road and Beccles Road, using spray paint to draw graphic symbols around several potholes in the streets.

Elsewhere, cones have been used to protect drivers from potholes, such as in Combs Lane, near Stowmarket.

READ MORE: Suffolk news