A newspaper investigation has revealed authorities across Wales were liable for well over £8M in compensation claims between 2005 and 2007.

A freedom of information request by the Wales on Sunday revealed payouts were made for a variety of reasons from highways damaging vehicles to £90 for a broken stiletto.

At least eight councillors made claims against local authorities. The figures are not complete as three councils refused to provide details, says the report, including the second-biggest Welsh council, Rhondda Cynon Taf. Of those replying, Newport was worst off, with a massive £3.18M in claims.

Local government consultant and ex-Bridgend council leader Jeff Jones told the paper the growing compensation culture was leading some people to make false claims. ‘But I’m glad to say councils are starting to hit back and winning cases,’ he said.