Help! Turning off stop cock

[UndertheCedartree]

The pipe on my outside Tap (the bit with the tap on it) has come off and water is gushing out. I've found the stop cock behind the washing machine but I'm unable to turn it as it is so stiff. Any advice?

Call the local board.

*water board.

Do you have a water meter? You can switch it off in the street.

Try turning the stopcock a little further open, then try turning it closed. Call the water board. If no luck there, call an emergency plumber. Try binding with duct tape, a rubber glove or even an old piece of carpet/underlay until someone comes to assist.

Thank you - I did that and it worked!

Much appreciation for everyone who replied!