ANGER turned to horror for Evesham Street residents when gaping holes in the road left by mains repairs became dangerously exposed.

Workmen for Severn Trent had placed large steel plates over five 3ft holes when they finished for the day on Friday.

At first, people living in the street complained about the loud clatter made when vehicles passed over the metal sheets.

But they were even more horrified when they noticed one of the plates was slowly moving across the road, uncovering the hole.

Resident Stuart Weaver said that irritation caused by the noise turned to shock when they saw what was happening -- and they had to physically move the plates themselves for safety reasons.

Mr Weaver informed Severn Trent on three occasions, telling them it was dangerous, and was finally assured workmen would return to the site that evening.

Another resident informed the police of the hazard.

Mr Weaver said it took almost five hours for contractors to return and put barriers around the holes.

In a letter he has written to Severn Trent, he says it is not only a public safety issue but it is "not acceptable to leave uncordoned and unpinned steel plates covering holes in the road".

He adds: "Evesham Street is a main road into the town and the nuisance effect from vehicles driving over them is considerable."

A Severn Trent spokeswoman said they were committed to ensuring the safety of workmen, residents and motorists for every job.

She added road plates were vital in maintaining traffic flow but in this instance, the plate had not been properly secured.

"We are always glad to hear from residents in Alcester during our work and we are grateful for the call regarding this issue," she added.

"We take health and safety extremely seriously. It is of paramount importance and we apologise for any problems caused.

"However, we responded promptly and we will ensure no such problems occur in future."