More than 500 homes without water

The first burst was reported on Tuesday afternoon, when the Ash Reservoir levels started depleting at a faster than normal rate.

The second burst was discovered when engineers tried to re-route the supply.

South West Water said it hoped to restore all supplies on Wednesday evening. Representatives are making door-to-door deliveries on request.

Bowsers of water have also been placed at affected areas such as Stoke Fleming, Warfleet, Week Hill and Swannaton.

Source of burst

Properties at Poundhouse, Crowthers Hill, Castle Road and Jawbone Hill also have low pressure or no water.

Engineers faced problems finding the source of the initial burst which was under a river.

Distribution manager Chris Delve said: "The main burst at Embridge, west of Stoke Fleming.

"A burst in a road or field quickly shows itself, but unfortunately in the river it was more difficult to establish."

Information on the location of bowsers is available by dialling South West Water on 0800 1691144.