People living in eight different postcodes were left without electricity for more than nine hours.

More than 1,000 properties were affected by a power outage across Strood.

Engineers from UK Power Networks worked to fix the issue with electricity being restored at about 7pm.

A total of 1,203 properties were without electricity, the company reported, with 235 customers being affected in the following areas: DA12 3, ME1 1, ME1 3, ME17 3, ME2 2, ME2 3, ME3 7 and ME3 8.

The company says it first became aware of outages shortly after 10.30am.

A statement released on its website at 3.30pm said: “Engineers have advised that due to the volume of work required to restore power by diverting around the faulted section, the estimated time frame is now between 7pm and 8pm – although it is likely that power will come back on in stages so some customers will be back on before this.

“I know another delay is frustrating – our engineers always try to give us the best estimate that they can, but due to the safety elements of working with live electricity sometimes they have to adjust their repairs at short notice.

“I'm sorry if this has caused you to change any plans you've made, but we'll be here to keep you updated.”

Speaking earlier this afternoon, the company added: “Our temporary generator is still on its way to site.

"There's going to be a lot of work required to repair the issue safely, so we have decided to use temporary generators to provide power.

"We know that our customers may be worried about the food in the fridge and freezer, so we want to try and help with advice.

"Food should keep for up to six hours in the fridge, and between 15-24 hours in the freezer if you avoid opening them.”