SHOPS and offices in large areas of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells were hit by a power cut this afternoon. It is believed parts of Pembury were also affected.

Some high street stores shut down. Employees at the Bhs store in Tunbridge Wells were stuck in a staff lift for a short period and had to be freed by firefighters.

The power went off at about 1.30pm. It was back on at around 2.20pm.

The reason for the fault is being investigated by Seeboard. A spokeman said there was no obvious cause.