RESIDENTS are being urged to remain vigilant and report any faulty street lamps in Worcestershire this winter.

While the county council has inspectors carrying out regular checks throughout Worcestershire, around 10 faulty lampposts are reported every day.

The importance of street lighting becomes enhanced during the winter months and residents are being urged to help keep as many of the lights working as possible. There are around 50,00 street lights on the roads and paths of Worcestershire.

Coun Derek Prodger, cabinet member for the environment, said: "We're asking residents when they see a light out to quickly report it so it can be dealt with.

"I think it's very important, especially for the parishes. If there is a fault they should phone in and point them out."

Most lampposts have an individual number written upon it which should be recorded, along with its location, with the free lights-out line on 0800 137352.

Repairs should be carried out within five working days, providing the fault has not been caused by a problem with the electricity supply.