A BURST water main caused traffic chaos in Gateshead and Newcastle today (Monday, April 27).

Police officers were called in to set up diversions as workers from Northumbrian Water dealt with the incident at St Cuthbert's Street, near the A184 Askew Road.

Witnesses have described water shooting 50ft into the air from a hole in the road when the main burst at 1.30pm.

The incident resulted in surrounding roads being flooded.

Askew Road remained closed for several hours, while there were also delays to bus services in Gateshead.

Northumbrian Water spokesman Alastair Baker said “An 18-inch main burst at the junction of Mulgrave Terrace and St Cuthberts Road.

“There’s a substantial escape of water. We were able to shut it down within a couple of hours.

"We managed the situation without any impact on customers’ drinking water. We are currently working with the police and local authorities and we are cleaning debris.

“Askew Road was closed between the Tyne Bridge and the Redheugh Bridge.”

There were other roads that were affected on the way down to the Quayside.

The Swing Bridge was also closed to allow the water to escape and flow away.

Mr Baker said: "We are now excavating and we will be pumping out the excavation and will be able to tell more when we have exposed the pipes."

At 5pm a police spokesman said: “Askew Road and High-Level Bridge have now re-opened to traffic.

“Traffic is now moving freely at Bensham Bank, Prince Consort Road and Arthur Street.

“Access to Hill Street via Askew Road will remain restricted for the next few hours.

“The public, local businesses, residents and motorists are all thanked for their patience.”