A GAS leak caused some disruption outside a church where the funeral of a racing legend was taking place.
Denys Smith, who trained Red Alligator to win the Grand National in 1968, died last week aged 92.
Grand send-off for a National hero
Northern Gas Network is working to fix a leak in South Church, near Bishop Auckland, where hundreds of mourners are due to attend St Andrew's Church for the funeral of the legendary racehorse trainer.
Ian Parkin, network officer for the company, said residents were safe to remain in their properties.
He added: "We will try and minimise noise for when the congregation meets for the funeral."
Teams worked overnight to locate the leak following a report from a member of the public on Thursday at 3pm.
Workers on the site believe they have pinpointed the leak, understood to be from an old cast iron gas main.
They are currently excavating the location.
Mr Parkin was unable to give a timescale for the work to be completed.
Meanwhile, in the nearby Red Alligator pub, Denys Smith's regular corner table has been reserved for him. A candle has been lit and placed on the table alongside his usual half of John Smith's.
"We can't have anyone else sat there today," said Barbara Appleby, whose husband Dave is manager of the pub.
Taking pride of place in the Red Alligator pub at South Church, the horse which won Denys Smith the Grand National
Bill Spowart, Red Alligator's stable lad, and Fred Pallister toast Denys Smith in the Red Alligator at South Church
Racing presenter and commentator Derek Thompson, centre, chats to former top jockey Bruce Raymond
The order of service at St Andrew's Church
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