Homes have been 'left without water' and a main road is closed in Burnley following a burst water pipe.

Residents in Brunshaw Road said the pipe burst shortly before 5am this morning and left the road surface severely damaged.

Brunshaw Road is closed to traffic between Ridge Avenue and Brownhill Avenue. Traffic coming down the hill is being diverted down Ridge Avenue.

United Utilities said it is working to fix the leak and apologised for the disruption.

The road remains open to pedestrians.

One resident said there had been little leaks in the road "for about two weeks" and that little had been done to stop them.

They said they had been left without water and were told if it could not be restored soon a water bowser may be sent out.

Some drivers were seen ignoring the road closure, going over the damaged road surface and moving cones out of the way to continue driving up Brunshaw Road.

Some drivers were seen ignoring the closureSome drivers were seen ignoring the closure (Image: NQ)

There is currently no indication of when the road will reopen.

A police spokesperson said: "We're currently at the scene of a road closure in Brunshaw Road, Burnley.

Road closure at the junction of Brunshaw Road and Ridge AvenueRoad closure at the junction of Brunshaw Road and Ridge Avenue (Image: NQ)

"The road is closed due to a structural issue with the road and we anticipate this will be closed for some time.

"We'll provide an update once cleared and thank you in advance for your patience."

The AA traffic website said: "Road closed due to sink hole on Brunshaw Road both ways from Ridge Avenue to Brownhill Avenue."

A United Utilities spokesperson said: “There has been a burst water main on Brunshaw Road, Burnley which is impacting water supply to customers in the area who may be experiencing no water or low pressure.

"Our teams are working to repair the main and restore water supply as quickly as possible.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused while the work is carried out.”