The water company described the repair work needed on a broken pipe in Oxfordshire as challenging after residents experienced a disruption to their supply.

According to earlier company statements, a water main burst just off Sutton Courtenay Lane during Sunday night, April 26.

The firm’s tankers were seen reaching the site around 8:30am on Monday, April 27.

Businesses and households in areas near Abingdon were impacted, covering Sutton Courtenay and Milton. Milton Hill Church of England Primary School stayed closed to all students for the entire day.

On-site teams found the fractured pipe and commenced sealing procedures by approximately 9:15am, with certain water supplies diverted through backup mains to reduce the impact on those without service.

A notice published around 2pm the day before stated customers should see water returning to their taps, although pressure might still fall short of usual levels.

In a new statement issued this morning (Tuesday, April 28), Thames Water said its staff worked throughout the night and the repair entails considerable difficulty.

Additional excavation is necessary, and heavier equipment is being brought in to support the operation.

The teams present at the site will begin redirecting water flows this morning to help reinstate supply, with the aim of completing the repair by tonight.

During this period, the company is using tankers to pump water back into the network to help as many customers as possible regain their supply.

Customers already registered on the Priority Service Register do not need to get in touch, as the company is already delivering bottled water.

The priority is helping customers who depend on water as quickly as possible.

The firm thanked people for their patience while addressing this issue. Another update will be provided by 1pm.