Startled Hog Hinders Water Pipe Repairs And Causes Train Disruptions

A “startled pig” confronted engineers as they repaired a burst water main in London.

The hog, named Pickle and believed to be a pet, charged at the engineers after finding them in his field on Wednesday.

The pipe burst in Lamberts Road, Surbiton, caused damage to nearby railway equipment and delays to trains.

Thames Water said the valve to cut the water was in a field occupied by a pet pig called Pickle and engineers were concerned about disturbing it.

Pickle then stood guarding the damaged valve and had to be coaxed away by a packet of crisps.

Damage caused by the flooding of tracks and signalling equipment meant limited trains were able to run along the line.

Network Rail said engineers had inspected the railway embankment and all tracks have been reopened.

Adding, in accounts to local media: “We’re sorry to anyone who has had a longer journey than normal because of the road closure.

“This is due to a burst on a 48-inch diameter pipe.

“Our engineers were quickly on site and are working hard to fix the pipe.”

The spokesperson confirmed there would be no water outages for customers in the area or flooding to properties.

It is not known what flavour crisps were used to entice the pig away.