A MAIN road could be closed for up to 10 days because of a burst water main.

A split in underground piping in Widmore Road, Bromley, today caused water to explode sideways, ripping through a concrete wall and creating a hole in the road.

Police and fire crews were called to the scene at approximately 4am to deal with the destruction.

A council spokesman said: "Severe delays are being expected at present and we advise motorists to avoid the local area. Traffic is being diverted along Plaistow Lane and buses are going into College Road.

"Vehicles leaving the town centre should follow College Road and then go into Homesdale Road."

Thames Water engineers managed to stop the leak by 6.30am. A spokesman said: "We apologise to all our customers for any inconvenience caused and we will work as quickly as possible to fix the damage and get the road open again as soon as possible."

SEE SEPTEMBER 8 EDITION OF THE BROMLEY EXTRA FOR FULL STORY