Power cut off in Finchampstead homes after tree hits cables

Hundreds of Berkshire homes had their electricity cut off after a tree blew down in strong winds and crashed through a network of cables.

Temporary generators were put in place earlier, with power restored to 217 houses in Finchampstead.

Southern Electric engineers began repairs on Monday night, however gusts of wind of up to 70mph forced them to abandon repairs in the early hours.

Permanent repairs, which were resumed earlier, are being carried out.

Customers will be supplied by generators until the repairs are complete.

The firm said there would be a short interruption to supplies when the network is switched back on, which could last up to 30 minutes.