A30 repairs threaten summer chaos between Okehampton and Exeter

Repairs to sections of the A30 between Exeter and Okehampton damaged by last winter's frost and snow will not begin until the end of June, according to the Highways Agency.

The stretch of road - vital to tourists visiting the area - was so badly damaged that parts of the road have been breaking up, and even sinking slightly, and although some temporary patches have been put in place, a much more thorough programme of repair is needed.

With the 'staycation' becoming more popular as money becomes tighter, a bumper summer season has been forecast for the Westcountry... but visitors to the area face a miserable introduction to Devon if roadworks continue through the school holidays.

The A30 was near capacity last weekend during the Bank Holiday, with Whitehouse Services and local food outlets working flat out to accommodate the influx of trippers. And although many went home early as a result of the weather, the approaching Azores High should bring them back as it brings some weeks of warm sunshine .