Townsfolk and businesses have been left in chaos, after water main work prompted a 7.7-mile detour.

A 120m section of Front Street, in Alston, has been closed since Tuesday, to allow contractor Amey to carry out what are described as "urgent investigation works" on a water main.

However, the remote town only has one way through it, and so the short closure has prompted a 7.7-mile detour.

Alix Martin, Alston Moor parish councillor, said: "There is one road through the town of Alston and if it is blocked or closed chaos ensues.

"Alston folk realise that maintenance of utilities and the roads need to happen. But there seems to be little consultation with businesses and residents as to the best time and way to close the road.

"Notices are put out by the Utilities saying road closure sometime over the next 18 months and then all of a sudden the road is closed.

"Businesses suffer, locals are highly inconvenienced and tourists are completely confused as to where to go. There must be a better way."

The work was expected to last up to five days.