THE water supply to properties affected by a burst pipe in a County Durham town this morning has now been restored.

A burst water main near the Ash Tree pub, on Carr Lane, Spennymoor, left homes on the Greenways estate without water.

It is understood the incident was reported in the early hours of this morning and workers were onsite by breakfast time.

The supply to most properties was restored by mid-morning and it is understood the last ones to be reconnected, in Birchmere and Grasmere, were sorted by around 1pm.

Work to repair the damaged water main is ongoing.

A spokesperson said: “Following this morning’s burst on Carr Lane, Spennymoor, all customers water supplies are now back on.

“Due to the location of the burst two-way temporary traffic lights are now in place and the bus stop has been suspended while we carry out the repair work.

“We would like to thank customers for their patience while we carry out this work."

The company said customers might find air in the water causes taps to splutter for a short time but if left to run slowly for a few minutes it will clear.

If the pressure or flow is reduced, they should operate their internal stop valve by turning it on and off a few times to get it back to normal.

And if the water is discoloured, customers need not be alarmed but should run the cold water kitchen tap for 30 minutes to clear.