As drivers gear up for the Christmas getaway, roads across Central Bedfordshire are set to benefit from a festive £9.6 million boost to tackle potholes.

The new investment from the Government comes after a 33% rise last year in pothole-related breakdowns according to the RAC.

Drivers encounter an average of six potholes per mile in Bedfordshire and right across the country, with the cost of pothole damage to vehicles estimated to be about £500 on average.

Only 36% of roads in the East of England are in good structural condition, says Asphalt Industry Alliance.

Local MP Alex Mayer says roads throughout the constituency have been plagued by the issue for too long as she welcomed the extra pothole blitz cash. She said: “Thousands will drive home for Christmas this weekend, but too many will hit potholes in our roads. Survey after survey show potholes are among drivers’ biggest gripes

“Now, under a government that’s serious about rebuilding Britain from the ground up, we can create smoother, safer journeys for everyone.”

The £9.6 million package includes £2.5 million in extra money to be spent filling potholes and repairing the region's roads.

Central Bedfordshire Council who are responsible for potholes will receive the additional cash from the Government. People can report potholes in their area to the council at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/info/55/transport_roads_and_parking/588/report_or_track_roads_and_highways_problems_-_potholes_street_lights.