Hundreds of homes - and a McDonald's restaurant - have been left without electricity in a widespread power outage.

About 220 properties in eastern Whitstable, Tankerton and Swalecliffe are thought to be affected.

The McDonald's branch in Chestfield was forced to close to due the lack of electricity, but has now reopened.

The problem is thought to have been triggered by a fault in an underground electricity cable.

Engineers became aware of the problems at 8.40am and arrived on site to try and resolve the issue.

The estimated time for power to return has been pushed back to 12.30pm.

A McDonald’s spokesperson said: “Our Chestfield restaurant was closed for a short time due to a power outage affecting multiple businesses within the local area. The restaurant has now reopened and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

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