Engineers work round the clock to restore power in the wake of Ophelia

Engineers from Electricity North West are working round the clock in difficult conditions today to restore power after ex-hurricane Ophelia hit the North West.

The region’s power network operator has restored supplies to more than 18,000 properties following the Met Office’s yellow weather warning for severe gales in excess of 65mph.

Last night, engineers restored power to 16,000 properties and following further power cuts caused by the weather today have restored power to a further 2,200 homes and businesses.

Around 1,800 properties remain without power as flying debris has hit power lines and high winds continue to make access difficult. Around 200 engineers are working in the remaining 35 locations to restore all known power cuts.

Martin Deehan, operations director for Electricity North West, said:

Electricity North West has warned people not approach lines down if they see any. Instead they're asked to call them directly on 105 and report it. The same number can also be used to report power cuts 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Customers that require extra assistance can sign up for Electricity North West's Priority Services Register at www.enwl.co.uk/priority