A BURST pipe which left homes, schools and businesses without water is still to be repaired.

The trouble began when a burst main between the junctions of Hawley Road and Oakfield Lane, Dartford, was discovered at 2am on April 26.

Thames Water had to close off five sections of piping in the immediate area, which stopped the water supply to more than 600 customers.

Leigh City Technology College, Green Street Green Road, sent home its 1,360 pupils and 170 members of staff as the building's taps ran dry and toilets would not flush.

And Gateway Primary School, Milstone Road, also sent home its staff and children.

Water supplies were switched back on at 9.30am and a full supply returned to most homes.

As News Shopper went to press, Thames Water was still trying to find the cause of the leak and repair the pipe but were unable to estimate the amount of wasted water.