WATER giant United Utilities is set to pay out compensation to residents in Blackburn and Hyndburn whose water was cut off last month.

Hundreds of residents were left without water because of a mains burst in Martholme Grange, Altham.

Up to 600 homes and businesses in Accrington, Oswaldtwistle, Clayton-le-Moors and Blackburn were left with no supply or low pressure for two days.

The firm has written to all its customers to offer them compensation.

Residents left without water for less than 12 hours will receive £10, between 12 to 24 hours £35 and those whose water was cut off for more than 24 hours will get £45.

Helen Wilson, of United Utilities, said: “We understand how inconvenient it was for people to be without water and that is why we have written to everyone direct with our apologies and this offer of compensation.”