GRASS verges in a residential Newport street have been churned up in a dispute over inconsiderate school parking.

Families in Byron Road say they have been the victims of years of mud - caused by parents dropping off and picking up their children from nearby Gaer Junior and Gaer Infants schools.

Among those to complain is Tesco lorry driver Nigel McMichael-Bratt, who claims the ongoing problem is not only creating an eyesore, but also a danger to elderly residents and other road users.

The 58-year-old, who lives with his wife Tannya, said: "This has been going on for a long time - ever since I moved in about 12 years ago - and it is still an absolute mess.

"Parents park on the grass verges outside our homes every school day and it is appalling. This is an elderly estate generally, and for infirm residents it is not safe walking on the pavements next to sheer mud and holes in the ground caused by the cars.

"I have contacted Newport City Council on a number of occasions down the years but am still waiting for action."

Mr McMichael-Bratt also says parents regularly turn in his drive during the school run.

Gwent Police's Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant for the area, Clive Elliot, said: “We understand the issues that parking outside schools can cause. Parents who are travelling from further afield inform us that they have no option other than driving their children to school but we do urge them to park responsibly and legally when they are doing this.

"We work with the schools to educate parents on the dangers of parking irresponsibility, explaining that our first concern must always be for the safety of the children. We also carry out enforcement activity when necessary, issuing parking tickets to those who are repeatedly parking with a total disregard for safety.”

A spokeswoman from Newport City Council added: "We would like to remind all parents and carers who use a vehicle to take a child to school to be considerate when dropping children off.

"Drivers must take account of all local parking restrictions, and should also consider the safety of all pedestrians and other road users at all times."