A BUSY road through a town in Somerset is set to close for over three weeks for gas works.

Union Street, in Cheddar, will be closed to vehicles from Monday, May 20, until Friday, June 14.

Wales & West Utilities Ltd will be carrying out work to upgrade gas pipes in the area during the closure.

The gas emergency and pipeline service started work on Tuesday, May 14, to ensure the gas is kept flowing safely to heat and power local homes and businesses.

Despite reports from other outlets, the road itself will not close until Monday, May 20.

Wales & West Utilities Simon Lee, who is managing the work, said: "We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future.

"While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across the Cheddar area.

"This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future."