TRADERS have been counting the cost of roadworks which started in their village yesterday.

Tean shopkeepers said trade slumped as motorists steered clear of the High Street as work began on the £500,000 improvement project.

The power supply to some businesses and homes was switched off while overhead cables were replaced.

Pharmacist Mark Lawton hired a generator out of his own pocket to keep his High Street chemist open.

But the shop was without heating until the electricity came back on at 3pm, one hour ahead of schedule.

He said: "Trade has been shocking. We have done next to nothing and basically it has been a waste of a day. It does not appear we will have any recompense for the power cuts."

The work, which involves the controversial relocation of the pedestrian crossing, is expected to take 14 weeks to complete.

Staffordshire County Councillor for highways Mike Maryon, who represents Tean, appealed for patience from traders, motorists and villagers during this time.

For the first four weeks of the work, New Road will be closed to traffic. During this time, motorists travelling from Cheadle will be diverted along the A521 to Blythe Bridge and then along the A50 towards Uttoxeter.