A water main burst with such force this morning that the pavement and road were “lifted”.

Emergency services were called to Hornchurch Road, near the junction with Abbs Cross Lane, around 3am this morning after a nine inch length of cast iron pipe burst.

A spokesman for London Fire Brigade said: “Quite a lot of damage was caused as the pressure of the water lifted the pavement and road from underneath.”

Essex and Suffolk Water have now fixed the problem and restored their service to the surrounding properties

Police say the road reopened at 5.46am although temporary traffic lights are in place as the tarmac is being relayed causing severe delays.

Have you seen anything? Call Harriet on 0208 477 3903 or send your pictures to harriet.orrell@archant.co.uk