WESSEX Water has thanked emergency services for helping to control a burst water main which caused streams of water to flood down a busy main road in Weymouth.

The incident took place yesterday evening in the one-way system on Dorchester Road opposite St John’s Church, with water flowing down the road like a river.

Police and firefighters were called to the scene and a cordon was in place, while teams worked to stop the flooding.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said: “We quickly had staff in the area working during the evening to fix the burst water main and help those residents who had to be temporarily evacuated.

“The water main was fixed late last night, and we did everything we could to minimise disruption to the local community.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused and would like to thank the fire service and other organisations who kindly assisted us.”

Some residents were advised to leave their homes as a precaution and other residents had their water cut off as a result of the incident.

A section of Dorchester Road between the Esplanade and Carlton Road South was closed by police with traffic diverted.

A police cordon was in place so crews could work safely. Some residents were told to leave their properties as a precaution.

The water was seen to be gushing out at ‘waist height’.

Firefighters attempted to control the flow of water and ensured it drained away (Bellow).

Dorset Echo:

A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Fire Control were made aware of the incident at 5:11pm. Three crews attended (Portland, Weymouth and Dorchester) along with the support unit out of Springbourne.

“Crews assisted in the evacuation of the properties along Dorchester Road as well as assisting in isolating the water supply.

“Crews started leaving scene at 7:32pm.”

Chris Hawkes, a resident of Dorchester Road, who was told to leave his flat, said last night: “Police knocked on the door. They told us we had to leave. My sister text me saying there was a leak. I didn’t realise it was that much of a leak. My feet got a bit wet when I went outside. They said they hope to get us back in tonight.”

Neil Cooper, a resident, said: “I am worried they will cut off everyone’s water. It’s been going on for a while.”

Mick Burt, a landlord of one of the properties affected by the leak, said he has had a longstanding issue with water leaking from the basement of one of the homes on Dorchester Road, and that the burst water main could be related.