A DRAGON patcher has been repairing road in the North Baddesley area recently.

The machine is used to fix potholes by using flames to de-ice or dry them out in cold or wet weather.

It then cleans the road surface with compressed air and seals the pothole with a stone mix and hot bitumen emulsion.

In the last week, it has been in North Baddesley on Sylvan Drive, Spring Gardens, Crescent Road, Wynards Gap, West Road, Botley Road and Chilworth Old Village.

Cllr Alan Dowden, deputy mayor of Test Valley Borough Council, said: "I have been seeking that these repairs are actioned for such a long time. The Conservatives tried to use the lack of action on highway repairs in their election leaflets. However thankfully the residents were not fooled and did take note that the Conservatives were condemning themselves.

READ MORE: Care company gives eggs to workers to say thanks

"The lack of action was totally down to their lack of funding for these repairs to take place. I have constantly lobbied for something to be done and my moaning for action as at last been fruitful."

In 2019, the fist dragon patcher, named 'Elliot' made its debut on Hampshire roads.

At that time, Hampshire County Councillor Rob Humby said: "The council has invested in two new dragon patcher machines for exclusive use on Hampshire roads. We have made a commitment to the people of Hampshire to use the resources available to us as efficiently and effectively as possible."

Message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.