Thousands remain affected after burst water pipe

Thousands of properties including homes, schools and leisure centres are still without water supplies following a burst pipe in west Devon.

South West Water (SWW) confirmed on Tuesday morning 9,500 properties were still experiencing a loss of water supply or lower water pressure than usual, after the initial burst on Monday.

A spokesperson for the water company said teams were "carefully recharging the network" to fully restore supplies for its customers in places including Tavistock, Bere Alston and Yelverton.

"This is a large and complex system, and it needs to refill properly and safely before we can bring it fully back into supply," they said.

"That's why it may take a bit more time for all customers to see their water return.

"Our absolute priority is getting supplies back to everyone as quickly as we can, and we want to thank customers for their continued patience and understanding."

Horrabridge Primary and Nursery School said it was closed on Tuesday due to having no water.

On social media, the school said: "Apologies for the delay but we have been trying to contact South West Water for further information however they haven't been able to give us any further information so with that in mind we will unfortunately have to remain closed today.

"Water collection points are open and available, we will keep you all updated of we are given further information."

Whitchurch Community Primary School, in Tavistock, also said it has taken the decision to close and apologised in advance for any disruption caused.

Nuffield Health Devonshire leisure centre in Derriford, Plymouth also remained closed on Tuesday morning due to the issues.

SWW said its most vulnerable customers had received "prioritised support" throughout the incident and it would continue to provide bottle water where needed.

The company said bottled water stations remained open for anyone who needed them while the system refills.

They are located at The George Park and Ride, Bere Alston Bowling Club, and Knightstone Tearooms in Yelverton.

"We'll keep customers updated as supply returns," added the spokesperson.

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, said on Tuesday she had been told by SWW a fourth water collection point would be announced "shortly", and "they've also informed me that they're ringing all local schools this morning".

The company also said compensation payments will be available to those affected, "as a gesture of goodwill and to make amends".

In a message to customers on social media, it said: "We understand how crucial access to water is, and we are committed to providing you with fair compensation for the inconvenience experienced.

"We will provide further updates on the specific compensation amounts in due course.

"We're grateful for everyone's patience and understanding while we've worked to put things right."