LIVELY discussions have been taking place on our social media sites over the pothole problem.

Meanwhile the online petition, set up by driving instructor Stuart Hornell, is heading for its second, and extended, target of 5,000 signatures.

Jim Liddell suggested: “Wouldn’t it be pointless fixing the road until the back of winter’s broken? I’m no more a fan of pot holes than anyone else, but what’s the point in repairing them now?”

Stuart replied: “Transport Minister is his (Humza Yousaf) job title. 4,500 people in Ayrshire want him to do something.”

Chris Torrance added: “Fix the road or fix our cars,” while William Anderson wants people to ‘stop playing politics’ and ‘fix the very dangerous road surfaces’.

What the above interaction shows is that people are now increasingly aware of the problem of potholes on our roads.

Ayrshire Roads Alliance have promised they will fix the damage, while Mr Hornell’s petition will make the Transport Minister sit up and take notice.

These are the main results of Pot Idol but it is crucial that the most dangerous potholes are fixed before someone is killed.

When you have a professional person like Mr Hornell saying that this is the case, then it is time to take action — sooner rather later.

Meanwhile continue to send in your pictures by e-mail and we will keep highlighting the issue until road-users, from professional drivers like Mr Hornell to weekend-only folk, are safe.

Contact Traffic Scotland if the pothole is on a trunk road, like a motorway or an A road, such as the A76 or A70 — 0800 028 1414 24-hours a day.

For other roads, contact Ayrshire Roads Alliance — calling 0345 742 0000 if you consider the pothole to be a serious one or use their online facility otherwise.