A power cut hit parts of Ashford earlier today after a contractor damaged an underground cable.

About 1,240 homes in Willesborough were left without electricity just before 11am. EDF Energy engineers restored power to 238 homes at 12.30pm after re-routing supplies.

In a statement, EDF Energy Newworks said: “In a bid to reduce the number of power interruptions caused by contractors damaging underground cables, we are actively encourage any firm undertaking work to contact us in advance for advice and free cable locating maps, to help them avoid our cables.”

The Stour Centre was shut while the lights were out and was due to re-open at 3pm.