THE Countess of Mar has come to the rescue of the thousands of homeowners, shopkeepers and drivers incensed by utility companies digging up roads.

The peeress, who lives at Great Witley, intervened during a Lords debate on roadworks.

"Does the Minister believe it is beyond the wit of man to invent a machine that can dig a narrow channel, lay a cable and backfill all in one go?" she inquired.

"Will the Government consider offering a prize to an entrepreneur who can invent such a machine?"

Trade and Industry Minister Lord Sainsbury welcomed the suggestion.

"If that would in any way reduce the number of questions raised on holes, personally I would offer such a prize," he said.