Hundreds of bottles of water are being handed out at a church after a burst pipe left a village without access to water.

The issues began in Hildenborough at about 8pm last night but have carried on through the morning, with many customers venting their frustration at the lack of water on social media.

This morning, South East Water has delivered bottles to St John's Church for villagers to collect but is also offering a service to help bring bottles to vulnerable people needing extra support.

Jim MacIntyre, South East Water’s Head of Networks, said: “Repairs to the 12-inch diameter water main which burst in Tonbridge Road last night affecting tap water supplies to properties in Hildenborough and Hilden Park are continuing this evening.

“The burst caused a three metre long split in the water main which we expect to be fully repaired by 7pm tonight.

“I am really sorry this repair is taking longer than anticipated to complete. This is because the pipe is buried deep underground and we need to ensure the safety of our repair teams on site.

“Changing how the water flows around the area’s extensive underground pipeline network we expect to see tap water supplies returning to the remaining 500 properties this evening.

“When customers see their taps running again some may experience cloudy or discoloured water. This is normal and all they need to do is run their kitchen tap until the water flows clear.

“Bottled water is available at St John’s Church, Tonbridge Road, Hildenborough, TN11 9HR.

“Our extensive network carries 517 million litres of drinking water everyday through 9,000 miles of mains and more than six million joints.

"If our customers see a leak or burst, they can report it to us by calling our dedicated Leakline on 0333 000 0002 or by visiting our interactive map found at https://inyourarea.digdat.co.uk/southeastwater.”

South East Water added in a tweet: "If you, or someone you know, is without water and needs extra support due to ill health/disability, please call us on 0333 000 2468 so we can get bottled water to them directly.

"Please think about your family, friends & vulnerable neighbours & share this info with them too."