A cold winter, followed by a hot spell can cause significant problems to some handling units, since wear on working surfaces is exacerbated by extremes of temperature, causing potholes which can damage equipment like forklift trucks, according to manufacturer Jungheinrich.

The company's Peter Scott explained: “Unlike cars, forklift trucks do not have sophisticated suspension systems and driving a lift truck over a substantial pot hole risks causing damage to the truck’s axle and tyres which could result in truck downtime and repair costs being incurred.”

Mr Scott added that untreated pot holes will generate dust which could result in mechanical problems