A North Devon scaffolder has told GB News about his efforts to fix around 570 potholes in his local area over the past four years.
Dermot McGeogh has been tackling road defects as part of what he calls his "amazing hobby".
Speaking to GB News, McGeogh explained how his efforts have saved taxpayers a "bundle of cash".
His work began after personal frustration with road conditions damaged his own vehicle.
Dermot McGeogh has been fixing road defects in his local area
GB NEWS
He now leads a team that repairs potholes most Fridays through an official council scheme.
"What began my amazing hobby was having a leaf spring snap on one of my trucks - I became totally despondent with it," McGeogh told GB News.
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"I decided I needed a hands-on, pragmatic approach. I got so fed up of reporting it and nothing being done."
His frustration mirrors that of many local residents, he told GB News.
"We pay council tax and get nothing for it," he added.
The scaffolder's initiative came from direct experience with poor road conditions and disappointment with official responses.
Dermot McGeogh joined Martin Daubney on GB News
GB NEWS
McGeogh initially funded the pothole repairs himself, making a significant personal investment.
"When I first got in, I spent £15,000 of my own money in the first two years buying the hot tarmac," he revealed.
His commitment eventually led to official recognition and support.
He now operates through the Road Warder Scheme on Devon County Council.
"They give you tubs of tarmac through the local parish county council," McGeogh explained.
This partnership has enabled him to expand his efforts and form a dedicated team that works regularly to address road defects.
Despite his efforts, McGeogh remains critical of local council funding for road repairs.
"I get £76,000 from my Highways. You might as well pee in the wind because it goes nowhere," he told GB News.
His frustration with Devon's funding allocation is evident.
"I am fed-up to the back teeth with the funding we get from Devon itself," he said.
Nevertheless, McGeogh continues his work out of community spirit.
"I have pride in my community and I love where I live, but I get fed-up to the back teeth with potholes."
Despite his significant contribution, McGeogh rejects being called a hero.
"I definitely wouldn't say I'm a hero, I'm just a fed up member of the public," he insisted.
His weekly routine now involves coordinating a team of volunteers.
"Most Fridays I go out and I have arranged a team. Together, we have done around 700 potholes now," he said.
The scaffolder's initiative highlights both community spirit and ongoing frustrations with infrastructure funding.
His direct action approach has made a tangible difference to North Devon's roads over the past four years.
