Workers subjected to increased abuse, council says

In some cases, the abusive behaviour meant people left work early according to the council

There has been an increase in staff and contractors being subjected to physical and verbal abuse, a council says.

West Sussex County Council said members of staff and contractors had been subjected to abuse and the authority "would not hesitate to take action" against those who threatened and abused staff.

In some cases, the abusive behaviour meant people had left work early, further delaying the process of works such as repairing potholes, the council said.

Councillor Joy Dennis, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "It completely baffles me that there are people who think it is acceptable to abuse our staff and those carrying out work on our behalf."

She said she knew "the majority" of residents understood and were patient with those "out there in all weathers to keep highways open and functioning".

But she added: "There is a minority who think they have the right to abuse and threaten our staff.

"Let me be clear, they do not and we will not hesitate to take action against those who feel they have this right."