Preston’s crumbling roads have long been a source of frustration, with the large potholes on South Meadow Lane in Broadgate causing particular problems for residents and visitors to The Continental and Avenham and Miller Park. Now, hopes of a bump-free road have been scuppered by the unexpected presence of a protected species.

The potholes had been scheduled to be filled-in around April 2025, but the repairs have been cancelled indefinitely due to the discovery of a small colony of Smooth Newts that have set up home in one of the largest potholes, only metres away from the River Ribble.

ETA: Since the morning has now passed in case anyone is in any doubt, this is of course an April Fool story.