Sewage tested by experts after leak at Chickenhall Lane in Eastleigh

Gallons of sewage pouring out of a tank at a site off Chickenhall Lane, near to the River Itchen.

Environmental teams were on the scene throughout the day trying to assess damage to the nearby wildlife and environment.

It is not yet known what is in the waste but a spokesman from Southern Water said the wastewater “has been screened and fully treated”.

The incident was reported at about 8.45am when Steve Chant was walking his two dogs along the Itchen Way which runs nearby to the sewage works.

He said: "I could smell it. I walked along the path and then saw this puddle."

After walking back to the top of the bridle way he then went into the nearby field and heard it pumping out of the tank.

Like other walkers walking along the Itchen Way yesterday he was faced with the prospect of walking through puddles of the sewage as it spilled out.

Hampshire county councillor Andy Moore reported the incident to the Environment Agency and called for the footpath to be closed.

“With the amount of sewage in that tank we know that it’s already oversubscribed, enough is enough,” he said.

A spokesman for Southern Water said the cause of the lead was due to a “small split” in a tank at Chickenhall works.

They said: “The water coming from the tank is fully-treated wastewater that has undergone a vigorous cleaning process.

“We have managed to contain the treated water within our works and will continue to do so until the tank is fully repaired.

“We have cleaned the public footpath and will remain in close contact with the Environment Agency.”