Investigation launched after Melton Sunday traffic chaos

Fuming motorists were subjected to lengthy tailbacks on all major routes in the town because of roadworks on Wilton Road, opposite the Kettleby Cross pub.

The situation was exacerbated by vehicles carrying many of the 5,000 attendees to the Defence Animal Centre off Asfordby Road.

But Leicestershire County Council, which manages highways and liaises with contractors to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, said this week it was unaware that any roadworks were in place on Sunday.

A spokesperson said: “A spokesman for County Hall said: “We were not aware of any works that were going to be carried out on Wilton Road on Sunday, 25 June, and we have not received any reports that they have gone ahead.

“We will investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.”

The spokesperson added: “The county council has a duty to make sure that public safety is maintained and traffic can move freely, to a reasonable standard, while roadworks are taking place.

“Measures are put in place for this to happen.”

Facebook was awash with comments from irate motorists caught in the Sunday morning jam.

Paula Kumirayi posted: “It took me one hour to get from Grange Drive to Sainsbury’s at 10:30.

“It took me 45 minutes getting down Leicester Street and Wilton Road with a two and four-year-old in the car.

“Took me 25 minutes to get back via Asfordby and the traffic is now backed up Burton Road past Baldocks too.”

Gem Luke posted: “This whole town is just an absolute joke now for traffic.”

Kate Buchanan wrote: “It’s a total joke!! Closing part of the main road leading from one end of town to the other in the middle of the day.”