EMERGENCY services were called out to Elphinstone yesterday evening (Tuesday) after a section of drainage works on the main road through the village collapsed.

Drainage works in the village got under way at the start of the month, with a section of Main Street set to be closed until August 25.

But at 6.36pm on Tuesday, a fire engine was called to the scene to assist workers after the edge of the hole of the works collapsed in on itself, resulting in material falling into the large hole which contained utility services.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “Emergency services were called to Elphinstone Main Street last night.

“The road had been closed to facilitate drainage installation by a contractor operating on behalf of Bellway Homes’ development.

“Part of the drainage excavation had subsided, exposing utility services and creating a potential risk.

"Utility companies and council officers attended and worked with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to assess the situation and ensure the area was safe and there was no risk to residents.

“The contractor is arranging for the area to be infilled under supervision from the utility companies concerned.”

Although the council worked with the fire service and utilities workers to ensure there was no onward risk, it has no involvement in the work or site safety, which are the responsibility of the developer and contractor.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “At 6.36pm on Tuesday, July 16, Operations Control mobilised one appliance to assist partners in Elphinstone.

“Crews left after ensuring the area was made safe.”