A NEWPORT vicar is calling for action because his church is literally on a holey road.

Father Edward Mathias-Jones said coffin-bearers are gingerly sidestepping a pothole before funerals at St Stephen's Church in Adeline Street, Pill.

He believes it is only a matter of time before an accident occurs, so is calling on Newport council to carry out urgent repair work.

"We had a funeral last week and the pothole concerned the bearers," he said. "It is a bit awkward for them because they have to be aware of it after they park the hearse and walk in.

"There would be a nasty accident if somebody tripped in it. The hole is quite big - I can actually stand in it."

Father Edward, 34, said he would phone the council to warn them about the danger. "I'll do something before the worst happens," he said. "I want it to be repaired because we all pay our taxes for good roads."

Councillor Laura Buchanan-Smith, who represents the area, said the road was in a dreadful state, with a series of potholes along its length. "Worst first is the council's policy, but how far has it got to go?" she said. "I think the road should be renamed Holy Road."

Newport council says it is investigating Father Edward's complaint.