Engineers restoring power following Storm Amy

Engineers from SP Electricity North West have made good progress in restoring power to those affected by Storm Amy.

High winds caused tree branches and debris to damage overhead power lines overnight in Cumbria, particularly around the Penrith area.

All available teams have been deployed to make repairs, with additional teams sent from Lancashire and Greater Manchester to help restore power to the remaining 1,500 properties.

Windspeeds of 72mph were recorded at Shap last night with strong winds continuing today as teams make repairs.

Head of network control, Alan Astall, said: "Our investment in automation has helped reduce the impact of the storm with most people affected only noticing power cuts of a minute or two as our automatic restoration systems kicked in.

"Where there is significant physical damage to the network our teams are attending site to make repairs and get people back on as quickly as possible, with some restoration times set to this evening.

"We know it's difficult to be without power, especially if you rely on it for medical equipment or have other needs, so if you need any additional support, please contact us and let us know so we can help".

The Met Office yellow weather warning for wind remains in place for all of the North West until midnight on Saturday.

If you see damage to the network, stay well clear and report it to SP Electricity North West on 105 so they can make it safe.

You can see live power cut information at https://www.enwl.co.uk/powercuts, or get in touch with SP Electricity North West on X or Facebook, or by calling 105 for free from any phone.