A SEWAGE tank has burst next to a Hampshire beauty spot spilling into a major river.

Gallons of sewage is pouring out of a tank in Eastleigh close to where the River Itchen meets the Chickenhall Lane.

Environmental teams are on the scene trying to assess the damage to the nearby wildlife.

It is not yet known what chemicals are in the waste but used tissues, condoms and tampons have been seen in the spill-off.

The incident was reported at about 8.45am this morning when Steve Chant was walking his two dogs along the Itchen Way which runs nearby to the sewage works.

He said: "I could smell it. I walked along the path and then saw this puddle."

After walking back to the top of the bridle way he then went into the nearby field and heard it pumping out of the tank.

Hours later and the sewage is still pumping out of the site.

It is not the first time that sewage has pumped out of the tanks.

Walkers are faced with the prospect of walking through puddles of the stuff as it spills out onto the nearby field and into the river.

A spokesman from Southern Water said: "We discovered a small split in the tank which is located within our Chickenhall works.

"The water coming from the tank is fully-treated wastewater that has undergone a vigorous cleaning process.

"We have managed to contain the treated water within our works and will continue to do so until the tank is fully repaired. 

"We have cleaned the public footpath and will remain in close contact with the Environment Agency."