Almost 400 homes are still without electricity in Charing after a power cut yesterday afternoon.

The power in 1,400 homes in the Charing Hill area went out at 5.47pm yesterday after workmen damaged underground cables.

Engineers for the company EDF Energy Networks managed to restore supplies to about 1,000 customers within one hour but 379 households are still without power more than 17 hours after the lights went out.

Niamh Arnett, spokesman for EDF, said: “Staff worked throughout the night to locate and repair the damaged cable.

“We’re pleased to report our engineers are making good progress with the repairs.

“We hope to be able to restore supplies during the afternoon.”

Ms Arnett also said: “Through our partnership with the British Red Cross we arranged for them to visit the area today to offer practical support while our work continues.

“Our Customer Relations team will also be writing to the worst affected customers next week to explain and apologise.”