Engineers respond to Storm Lilian

Engineers from Electricity North West are responding after Storm Lilian hit the region in the early hours of the morning.

Tree branches and debris caused widespread damage bringing down overhead power lines as wind speeds hit more than 70mph in some areas.

Using its automatic restoration systems, Electricity North West has been able to restore power to close to 15,000 properties, with some just under three minutes.

When it was safe to do so, engineers were dispatched and are now working to restore power to the remaining 3,000 properties. Impact has largely been across Lancashire with some damage in Cumbria and Greater Manchester.

Electricity North West incident manager Richard Moulton said: "Despite the very challenging conditions which saw strong winds and heavy rain hit the region, we've already been able to make some good progress.

"We were well prepared in advance and drafted in teams of engineers who were able to respond first thing this morning.

"Conditions are now starting to ease and teams are tackling faults that have been caused by trees and branches landing on overhead lines.

"If you see lines down or damage to any of our equipment, stay well clear and call us on 105 so we can make the area safe."

Electricity North West also offers extra support to customers who may find power cuts more difficult through its Extra Care Register. For more information and to register yourself or a friend or family member for free, go to www.enwl.co.uk/extracare.

You can follow updates and contact Electricity North West on X and Facebook, or you can call for free on 105 from any phone.