A POTENTIALLY dangerous hazard to pedestrians was avoided last Friday thanks to swift action by the town council and the use of social media.

A manhole cover in Market Road was severely damaged and had opened up, causing a major hazard to pedestrians using the footpath.

A quick thinking member of the public, who spotted the manhole early in the morning, texted a photo to Tavistock town and borough councillor Jeff Moody, who was then able to report the problem to the town council which is responsible for Market Road.

Cllr Moody praised the quick thinking of the member of the public, and the town council staff.

Cllr Moody said: 'Within minutes council staff had a temporary manhole cover in place and the area had been cordoned off. A new permanent cover is on order and will be installed shortly.

'Many thanks to the member of the public, and with the swift action of town council's works superintendent and council staff — a potentially nasty accident has been averted.

'This whole episode indicates just how valuable and effective social media is and how it can be used for immediate local community communication.'