ELECTRICITY North West engineers have restored power to more than 4,000 properties across the region affected by Storm Bert.

High winds, heavy rain, and snow, particularly in the Workington and Penrith areas of Cumbria, have caused damage to overhead lines with flying debris and ice accumulation.

Engineers had been on standby and have been out making repairs since initial reports of damage came in around 7am.

Alan Astall, head of network control for Electricity North West, said: “We were well prepared and had all our resources lined up to repair damage and restore power where needed.

"The network has held up well and our automatic restoration systems have kicked in in many areas, rerouting power to customers while engineers carry out repairs.

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“Our teams are working hard to restore the remaining properties today, while continuing to monitor the weather.

“If you have a power cut, report it online or call us on 105 so we can keep you updated. If you see damage to the network stay well clear as it could still be live and call us immediately on 105 so we can make it safe.”

Extra support is available to customers in vulnerable circumstances, for instance those who rely on electricity for medical needs, are older, or have young children at home.