A public drop in event will give people in Eton the chance to quiz contractors about gas pipes replacement work which is expected to disrupt the town for months.

The town's ageing gas pipes are due to be replaced with tough new ones expected to last until the 22nd century.

But it will involve closing the road from Windsor Bridge to Eton Court from February 3 for 10 to 12 weeks, then from Eton Court to Eton College for eight to 10 weeks - a total of 20 to 22 weeks of disruption.

The public exhibition/drop in event is on Thursday, January 16 in Eton Parish Council Building in High Street from 6pm to 8pm.

Representatives from the company Cadent will be there to answer questions.

Where possible the company plans to insert new pipes into the old gas mains, dramatically reducing the size of excavations needed and duration of the work. But due to the size and position of some of the existing gas mains, engineers will need to dig old style trenches to lay some section of new pipe.

They will need access to affected properties whose gas supply will also need to be temporarily disconnected. Engineers will contact those affected customers in advance.

People should ask to see official identification from anyone seeking access. All engineers working for Cadent carry official identification which should be inspected.

For more information visit https://cadentgas.com/help-advice/supporting-our-customers/checking-engineer-ids

To verify an engineer’s identity call 0345 835 1111 - Option 2

Project Manager Richard Penny said: “We’ve carefully planned our work in close discussion with the local authorities and information has also been sent to local homes and businesses.

“We’re doing all we can to ensure this essential work is delivered with as little disruption to the local area as possible.

“Our work will help ensure people in Eton keep on enjoying safe and reliable gas for cooking and heating in the future.

“I’d encourage locals who have any questions about the work to come and visit us at the public exhibition on January 16.”

For more information on the project call 0800 096 5678, more information on Cadent’s gas mains replacement work can also be found at www.bettergaspipes.co.uk