DOZENS of villagers sweltered in the midst of a heatwave after a trio of water pipes burst.

As temperatures soared beyond 30 degrees, more than 500 households had their water supply affected after three water mains burst in Lingfield and Newchapel.

It was first reported to Surrey and East Sutton Water at 10pm on July 1.

Thirty sweltering homes were completely without water from 12.30pm on July 2, until approximately 5pm when all water was restored.

The three bursts occurred near the junction of the Eastbourne Road and West Park Road.

Homes were flooded in May 2008 after a water main erupted in Blindley Heath.

Further misery was piled on the residents and their neighbours in Lingfield after a similar incident occurred in September 2008.

Furious East Surrey MP Peter Ainsworth has expressed his sympathy for and businesses affected.

He said: "This would be bad enough if it were an isolated incident, but the trouble is that it's not.

"Sutton & East Surrey Water have promised a full investigation of what went wrong this time, but given the history of problems with burst pipes along the A22 it may well be that we need some radical solution.

"Having water supplies cut off is inconvenient at the best of times, but it's even worse during a heat wave.

"In addition, some local businesses have suffered a significant loss of earnings, which they can ill-afford during the recession.

"The water company may not be required by law to pay compensation but, as a monopoly supplier, they should at least consider offering a rebate to those who have been affected, as a gesture of good will."

Sutton and East Surrey Water have apologised for any 'inconvenience' caused.

The company issued a statement had on their website referring to a 'special situation' in Eastbourne Road, Newchapel.

The statement read: "We apologise for any inconvenience that this incident may have caused."

Were you affected by the burst water mains? If so, please call our newsdesk on 01737 732 079.