Water supply restored after newts delay fix

Water supplies have been temporarily restored to an area of Oxfordshire after work to fix a burst main was delayed by the presence of newts and the need for more digging.

The burst pipe at Sutton Courtenay meant those in the OX14 postcode area had no water or low pressure and led to St Blaise CofE Primary School in Milton Heights closing on Monday.

Thames Water said the fix was taking longer than expected as the amphibians were found at the location of the ruptured pipe.

The company said late on Tuesday that a temporary repair means supplies have been restored but further work to install a specialist valve will take place on Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, it said the work had been ongoing overnight but the repair was complex with extra excavation and larger equipment needed.

Thames Water said bottled water was being delivered to residents on its Priority Services Register.

The water firm said: "If you or someone you know needs a little extra support, our free Priority Services Register can help us to understand your situation so we can take it into account as best we can."