A burst water pipe left has flooded two properties, left many without water and caused traffic chaos.

The leak, along London Road, Hildenborough, near Tonbridge, began at around 5.30 this morning.

Andy Beston, regional network manager at South East Water, said: “We are very sorry to customers impacted by a large burst water main in London Road, Hildenborough.

“Unfortunately, two properties have been flooded as a result of the burst.

“Incidents like these are extremely rare but as a consequence of very dry ground conditions and the resulting earth movement, we have seen a 50 per cent increase in bursts along our 9,000 miles of main.

“We’re working very closely with the affected customers to understand exactly what property has been damaged.

"Our specially-trained team will be in constant communication with the customers, every step of the way.

“Repairs to the damaged pipe are ongoing and a very small number of customer properties are currently without water.

"Customers without water have been provided bottled water while we work as quickly and safely as possible to restore their supplies.

“The burst has caused significant damage to the road surface so London Road is currently closed to passing traffic for safety reasons.

“Once the pipe is repaired we will begin restoring the road to its original condition so it can be safely reopened.“