PARENTS say they have been forced to splash out on new shoes for their children due to "disgusting" flooded footpaths.

Families in Newport's Duffryn Estate have demanded that a series of large puddles affecting walkways in the field between Kestrel Way and Sandpiper Way, as well as in Partridge Way and close to Aneurin Bevan Court for the elderly, are addressed by Newport City Council.

The muddy pools block the routes of children attending nearby Duffryn Junior School, St Joseph's Roman Catholic High School, and Duffryn High School, while neighbours say disabled and elderly residents are also struggling to cope.

Margaret Roberts lives in Kestrel Way with disabled husband David, 69.

The 68-year-old, who is a panellist for Newport City Homes, said: "These floods are ridiculous. I see children having to wade through the water to get to and from school, and people have fallen.

"People also walk this way to Asda, while there are a lot of elderly residents living here, but everyone's access is restricted. My husband uses a mobility scooter but he is effectively housebound.

"This is a lovely area but action is needed."

Alison Strange-Green, of Grosmont Way, navigates puddles every day when taking five-year-old daughter Isabella and 11-year-old son Alexander to school.

The 45-year-old said: "My daughter calls them Peppa Pig muddy puddles and laughs, but it is not funny. They get home soaking wet and their shoes are ruined.

"I have bought my son five pairs of shoes and my daughter is on her third pair of boots. I am now investing in more expensive boots so they last longer, and have spent £150 in the last month on footwear.

"Something should be done about it, particularly for those of us who do not drive."

Fellow mum Terri Garner, 29, of Heron Way, has also had to buy new shoes for her children.

She said: "It's a nightmare. It is absolutely disgusting that you cannot get through without getting covered in mud and water."

Joanne Ferguson, of Sandpiper Way, has also experienced flooding in her back garden.

The 47-year-old explained: "It happens here whenever it rains heavily. The alleyways in the estate are also badly affected."

A spokeswoman for Newport City Council said urgent action was due to take place yesterday to relieve the flooding problem and "improve conditions for pedestrians".

She added: “Newport City Council is aware of the surface water issue with footpaths in Duffryn which is due to the exceptional rainfall endured recently, and is actively seeking a solution to the issue."