VILLAGERS in the mid-Test Valley lost their water supplies on Saturday after a pipe burst near Lockerley.

Homes in the Lockerley, East Tytherley and Mottisfont areas were affected by the burst which happened at about 11.30am and some people were without fresh water for about six hours.

An eight inch main ruptured on the Lockerley to East Tytherley road near the Star Inn pub and the road was closed while Southern Water contractors repaired the fracture.

Southern Water drafted in bottled water supplies but people had to pick it up at a hand-out point at East Tytherley.

A Southern Water spokesperson said: “About 30 customers contacted us to report low water pressure or loss of supply. The repair was complex due to the location of the pipe and the road had to be closed and traffic diverted while it was carried out.

The majority of properties had supplies restored at about 3pm as we were able to divert water from another pipe. About four properties had to wait a while longer.

The repair was completed and all supplies restored at about 7pm.”