AS the clean-up commenced following yesterday's burst water main in South Ockendon, which led to some families having to leave their homes, the leader of Thurrock Council has pledged the authority's help.

Cllr Rob Gledhill says: "This is terrible news for residents affected and we are working with all of our partners to ensure resident safety and that those flooded out can return to their homes as soon as possible.

"I would like to thank the emergency services, Essex and Suffolk Water, as well as council officers who responded to this so quickly. As soon as Essex and Suffolk Water find the reason for the pipe bursting I know they will work with the council to reduce the risk of it happening again.

"If your property is affected please contact the council on 01375 385 693 for help and support."

Incident Commander Russell Freeman, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Our crews did a great job in pumping hundreds of thousands of litres of water away from the properties and the road.

"We're pleased to say the burst water main has been completely isolated and the water has dropped to a level where it is no longer affecting properties.

"We're continuing to work with our partner agencies to manage the scene as well as ensure every single household has all the information and support they need."

Today (Sunday, 21 June) ward councillor Mike Fletcher praised the local community spirit, saying: "Locals are getting together to donate cleaning materials and, thanks to the Bolt family, they are using Village Wines on South road as a drop off and collection point.

"Going forwards I have called on the council to look at supporting the road and the infrastucture of the area. All too often the village is cut off due to incidents, effectively it's a one in, one out situation on Stifford Hill and the junction with Stifford Road and it can't cope with the way the place has grown."