Temporary traffic lights are in action along Oxhey Lane as workmen attempt to fix burst water main.

One lane has been closed off along the arterial route between Watford and Pinner after the nine-inch main ruptured early yesterday.

Technicians from Veolia Water started work at 9am yesterday but the company said the main is proving difficult to repair as it is close to telephone cables.

The temporary lights are set to remain in place today and Veolia said it hoped to be finished by tomorrow morning.

A spokesman for the company said: "We do appreciate that this is a very busy road and would like to thank residents and motorists for their patience while we carry out this work."