The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word POTHOLES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
P
O
T
H
O
L
E
S
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The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does POTHOLES mean?
POTHOLES noun- A shallow pit or other edged depression in a road's surface, especially when caused by erosion by weather or traffic.
- A pit formed in the bed of a turbulent stream.
- A vertical cave system, often found in limestone.
- A pit resulting from unauthorized excavation by treasure hunters or vandals.
- A hole or recess on the top of a stove into which a pot may be placed.