A PENSIONER fears her home has been left uninhabitable after a burst water main sent water gushing through houses in a Southend street.

A major repair operation is under way after a burst water main flooded several homes in Priory Crescent at roughly 4.45pm on Wednesday.

One resident, who has been left with a heavily flooded basement, fears she cannot continue living in her property and has also been forced to switch off her electricity as a result of the flooding.

Other residents have reported six inches of water flowing through their homes, while some homeowners have created makeshift barriers with planks of wood and metal bars to stop water entering these homes.

The 81-year-old resident, who asked not to be named, said: “My electric was turned off as it’s all in my basement, which was flooded and had to be off for safety reasons.

“I just can’t believe what’s happened. The water was a few feet deep at one point.

“The power of the water was unbelievable, I’ve never seen anything like it. I am glad it’s not cold.

The water was coming in and flowing like a river.

“Some of my furniture is damaged and people have been so kind and bringing towels. I am concerned about the structure of my home and any damage there too, and the outside walls are damaged.

“I do not want to stay here and can’t live here any more. I fear I’ll have to go into a home and am feeling ill due to all this.”

Another resident had to rip out carpets and said wooden furniture was damaged by the water as well.

The 41 year old said: “There were many, many gallons coming out of the road and water main.

My garden wall, which is stone and borders Priory Park, is damaged with a big chunk out of it.

“My carpets and furniture are damaged, especially wooden furniture, and anything on the floor is badly damaged.

“The carpets are very wet and were removed and I’ve also lost important paperwork too.

“The insurance will cover it but it’s so annoying and I’ve got a guitar which is beyond repair too. I know my neighbour was badly affected by this too.”