THE High Street's iconic Christmas tree has not been put up this morning due to ongoing water works.

The tree was due to be erected at 6.30am this morning, in its usual place opposite the Buttercross.

However, Southern Water's pipeline is still protruding out into the High Street, meaning there is currently no space for the tree.

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Southern Water is currently undertaking a "major investigation" after flooding overwhelmed drains and caused sewage to spill out onto the High Street earlier this week.

An overground water pipe has been installed in Little Minster Street to allow teams to deal with several blockages.

Paul Spencer, executive director of Winchester BID, said: "We were made aware on Saturday that Southern Water needed to access the High Street to continue with their urgent works. The impressive 38ft Christmas tree for the High Street was due to arrive at 6.30am this morning, for installation ahead of the Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On event next week. We were speaking with the Southern Water team over the weekend to review options and we are now organising an alternative date for delivery, installation and decoration of the tree."