Water has been returned to thousands of residents who had been left without supplies after a burst water main “significantly damaged” equipment.

Those living in and around Kings Hill, Wateringbury, Yalding, West Kingsdown, Borough Green, Hadlow and Five Oak Green had been left with no supply or low pressure since Saturday evening (March 22).

The majority of the 7,000 properties affected have water again, but those in the Swanton Valley and West Peckham area are still facing problems.

South East Water says it is also addressing isolated instances of low pressure caused by air pockets in some other areas.

In an update today (Wednesday) the company said: “We're continuing work to release trapped air in our system to aid the recovery in our network following the burst water pipe at our water treatment works.

“Our site is now back in operation and drinking water storage levels across the West Kent area are increasing, but we're still seeing small air pockets that are causing supply issues for some customers.”

Two bottled water stations at Kings Hill Asda and West Kingsdown Library and Village Hall will be open from 9am.

Thousands of properties had been affected after equipment was significantly damaged by flooding following a burst pipe at one of its water treatment works on Saturday evening.

While supplies returned to most overnight yesterday, South East Water has warned it may first appear discoloured.

The company said: “When supplies return to customers, the water may splutter and look cloudy or discoloured.

“Please be assured both cloudy and discoloured water pose absolutely no risk to health.

“Our advice to customers is to simply run their cold water tap until the water turns clear.

“Once it does clear, the tap water remains perfectly safe to consume.

“Once again, we are very sorry to all our customers who have been affected by this and thank them for their patience while we continue working to restore supplies.”

A Government spokesman added: “The Government is receiving regular updates from South East Water about the water supply disruption affecting properties in the West Kent area.

“The company must take urgent steps to support residents and resolve the issue as soon as possible.”

But, the GMB Union say the situation is a “disgrace”.

Gary Carter, GMB national officer, said: "Our water infrastructure is falling apart.

"Customers are paying the price for a private water sector that has failed them.

"Residents should not be having to rely on bottled water for days on end, it’s a disgrace."