A FLOOD-struck estate is still being drained more than a day after a burst water main unleashed a river of dirty water.

As reported by the Daily Echo yesterday, Engineers are fixing a major pipe in Hedge End after the leak yesterday flooded 17 homes and left thousands without supply.

Police and the fire service have cleared most of the roads around Stanier Way but are still tackling some flooding which forced elderly residents out of their homes.

Some are staying in the Holiday Inn near Ageas Bowl and have been told they are likely to be there for two weeks.

Water has now been restored to the 20,000 properties affected via an alternative supply, but there may be “slight discolouration” from some taps.

Southern Water said in a statement: “We would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue as a matter of urgency and would like to thank them for their patience while we carry out this vital work.

“This is a large main and will take some time to repair. In order to carry out this vital work, we are bringing in specialist equipment. Customers situated in Stanier Way and neighbouring streets will continue to be communicated with whilst repairs are brought to a conclusion.

“Customers can continue to use their water as normal, however may have to run the mains fed tap for a short duration.”

Experts on the scene had initially said 70,000 homes were affected.