Schools shut as water issues hit third day

More than 12 schools have been forced to close as a burst water main continues to cause supply issues in part of Oxfordshire.

The schools, along with thousands of homes, in the OX7, OX18, OX28, OX29 and GL7 postcodes have had no water or low pressure after a broken pipe that feeds the reservoirs in the area was found next to Oxford Road at Eynsham.

Thames Water said it was fixed on Thursday evening and refilling of the network was under way. Water is expected to gradually return to most properties throughout Friday.

Schools affected include those in Burford, Carterton and Witney. Bottled water stations remain in operation at Witney at Sainsbury's and at Morrisons, Carterton.

In its latest update, Thames Water said tankers were also pumping additional water into the network.

It said so far over 3.5 million litres had been pumped in with more set to be added throughout Friday.

Thames Water previously said additional staff were being brought in and "special measures" were in place to keep hospitals supplied.

The damaged pipe had been isolated on Wednesday, but excavation to get to it had proved more difficult than expected "due to excessive groundwater", the firm added.

It has thanked customers for their patience and apologised for the inconvenience.

The water firm said residents could expected water to return gradually as the water made its way through the system and the pressure stabilised.

It added when water returned to taps it may be discoloured at first which was normal and should clear within two to three hours.

Thames Water said residents who might need extra help while supplies were disrupted should sign up to the company's priority services register.

Carers, friends, or family can also register on behalf of someone they think could benefit from extra support.

You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.