An MP has pledged South East Water will be "held to account" over water problems in the run up to Christmas.

Thousands of homes and businesses in the Weald completely losing their water supplies for several days over the festive period.

Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone and The Weald, was joined by councillors last week to ask South East Water's David Hinton what was being done to stop a recurrence.

The water company explained it is hoping to improve the resilience of its pipes as part of a five-year enhancement scheme planned to start in 2025.

An improved "interconnectivity resilience" would help the company transfer water in from other areas in times of emergency and ensure homes and businesses aren't left without.

A smart sensor network is also being worked on, which would allow South East Water to better locate and address leaks in real time.

The company told local leaders its initial communication "fell well below par" and announced it would be working with other agencies, including UK Power Networks, to make improvements.

South East Water say it has been in contact with those most impacted by water supply interruptions and are working on appropriate compensation.

The company also gave assurances that all homes affected by the loss of water will receive financial compensation of up to £250 in credit on their account – equivalent, they say, to an average annual water bill. Alternatively, customers can ask to have it credited to their bank account.

In addition, businesses will be getting £500 credit automatically, plus additional compensation depending upon their individual circumstances.

South East Water have told businesses to claim through their business insurance but will provide help covering uninsured losses, including covering excess payments where possible.

Tory MP Helen Grant said: "I was pleased to organise this important meeting, which was constructive.

"However, ‘talk’ is easy and my constituents need tangible action from South East Water.

She added she would be "holding them to account" at a meeting in six months time to establish what progress they have made.

"I have also asked their CEO David if Staplehurst can be used as a pilot area to develop their Smart Sensors Network and I look forward to hearing more about this over the coming months," she said.

"Compensation for those who have suffered loss is also important and I will be monitoring this very closely."

Maidstone councillor Louise Brice, who represents Staplehurst, addedd: "Residents and businesses suffered significant disruption and distress during the run up to Christmas, due to the issues South East Water had with their network.

"We want to see three things moving forward: appropriate compensation, improved communication and more resilience built into the system.

"We want leaks fixed in an efficient and timely fashion too."