Residents without water for 24 hours after aqueduct leak

United Utilities thanked customers for their "continued patience and understanding"

United Utilities has apologised to residents who have been left without water for 24 hours.

The company said engineers had been working since Sunday morning to repair a leak to the Vyrnwy aqueduct which provides water to Runcorn and part of south Cheshire.

Temporary arrangements were in place to supply water from alternative areas and water pressure may fluctuate throughout the day, the company said in an online statement.

Bottled water had also been delivered to vulnerable customers who are registered with United Utilities’ Priority Services scheme, the company said.

A representative for Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals said its Halton Hospital site was experiencing "some water supply issues", adding:

"We have robust emergency management plans in place and are working closely with United Utilities to ensure no patients are affected.”

'Fluctuating pressure'

Five schools in the area have also closed because of the water supply.

They are: Our Lady Mother of the Saviour Primary, St Mary's C of E Primary, Woodside Primary, Blessed Carlo Acutis Academy and The Grange Academy.

Residents have been warned water pressure may fluctuate during peak times of the day, and there may also be discolouration "which should clear after a short time".

The company thanked customers for their "continued patience and understanding whilst we complete the repair".

Water delivery stations have been set up and bottled water is being provided free of charge to customers.

In a statement a representative for United Utilities said: “We’re very sorry for the inconvenience and we are working hard to get supplies back to normal as soon as possible.

"We are keeping any affected customers up to date and we thank everyone for their patience in the meantime."