A BURST water main has closed the offices of Winchester Business Improvement District.

The problem in the flat above the BID offices in Parchment Street saw water cascading into the premises in Parchment Street early yesterday morning.

It happened at 2.15am and a crew from Winchester Fire Station spent nearly two hours salvaging what they could.

BID were forced to cancel a planned tea party on Friday to celebrate the first anniversary of the business centre where it is based.

It says it will be closed until further notice. BID staff are available online.

The problem comes soon after a shop only 50 yards up the street, Continental Delicatessen, has announced it has closed because of a similar problem.

Signs on the door and windows at the deli said: “Shop shut due to flood + air con failure,” and “Reopening August.”