The 65m fence at Lemington in Newcastle, depicting Roman soldiers, is still not finished after three years.

It took the Romans just six years to build the wall, stretching 73 miles from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway.

Speaking on Tuesday, a Newcastle City Council spokesman said a series of minor problems had delayed the project, which should be finished within a week.

The Roman barrier, built in AD122 by the emperor Hadrian, is a World Heritage Site.

In tribute, Newcastle City Council leaders decided to erect the £29,000 fence along part of the new Hadrian's Trail, about a mile from the remains of the wall.

Local councillor Barry Phillipson blamed council leaders for the delay.

He said: "I don't know exactly how long it took the Romans to build the section of the wall that runs through Lemington.

'Minor delays'

"But I doubt whether it was anywhere near the three years-plus it has taken to begin the installation of the Hadrian's Trail fence. It's been a shambles."

Maternity leave, a fire at the artist's studio and an armed robbery at the contractor's offices have all delayed the project.

Councillor Pauline Allen, executive member for culture, heritage, libraries and sport, said: "The fence element of the project has experienced a series of minor delays beyond the control of the project.

"The fence with Roman figures is due to be fully complete by next week."