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Posted on the 18th February 2026 in PHTM News

CREWE CABBIE MAKES A SPLASH WITH RUBBER DUCK POTHOLE PROTEST

A Crewe cabbie has turned a "horrendous" road defect into a miniature pond to highlight the crumbling state of the town’s streets.

Shaine Tench, director of A Star Taxis, placed three rubber ducks into a water-filled pothole, joking that the toys "were having the time of their lives" while trying to make the road "look more pretty."

The stunt is part of a wider social media campaign by Mr. Tench, which includes videos of him lying inside large potholes to grab the public's attention.

He says the lighthearted approach has helped unite the community over a serious issue. 

"The more people who talk about these issues the better," Mr. Tench said, noting that the problem in Crewe seems like an "ongoing issue" compared to nearby areas.

Cheshire East Council defended its maintenance record, explaining that heavy rain and freezing temperatures often cause road damage.

While the council aims for permanent fixes, officials admitted that bad weather sometimes forces them to use quick, temporary patches.

A spokesperson stated: "Some of the repairs we make are temporary to make sure that the road is safe," adding that while these fixes "may not be visually pleasing," they are necessary to keep traffic moving.

The council is planning extra repair work through March and urges residents to report defects online.

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