A town school was forced to close and properties in Grange-over-Sands were without electricity for the majority of yesterday after a power cut.

First reported at 3.52am on Friday morning, Electricity North West (ENW) confirmed that an unexpected incident on their high voltage cable had caused residents' electricity to be cut off.

On Friday afternoon, a spokesperson for ENW confirmed that their staff were aware of the situation and working to ensure homes could receive electricity again.

They said: “We received reports of a power cut in Grange-over-Sands at 3.52am due to a fault with the overhead electricity network, affecting 32 properties.

“Engineers have been on site throughout the day and are working hard to restore power to all properties as quickly as possible.

“We understand the impact of being without power, especially during these difficult times, if anyone needs any more information during a power cut, they can follow Electricity North West on Twitter or Facebook for updates, or call us free on 105.”

In response to the lack of electricity, Allithwaite CE Primary School were forced to close for the day to keep staff and pupils safe.

A statement posted by the school on social media yesterday morning said: “We are very sorry but Allithwaite School will be closed today due to having no power until 11:30 am predicted.

“Working temperatures are far below acceptable levels.

“This is a situation beyond our control.”

Although an 11.30am target was set by Electricity North West, staff were still on site yesterday evening.

Another power cut in Cumbria was also reported yesterday evening, with some properties in Whitehaven left with no power.