Rothbury Gas Off

The gas went off at around 6.30am this morning and could be off for up to 48 hours.

A spokesman from United Utilities said: "United Utilities runs the north's gas emergency service on behalf of Northern Gas Networks. Our engineers are currently responding to a loss of gas incident in the Northumberland town of Rothbury. The incident was reported at about 6.30am this morning.

"Around 1,000 properties in the town have now been confirmed without gas, although the situation is still developing. The problem is water which has got into the gas main. This water has been located and is now being pumped out. However it is likely to be some time yet before we are in a position to say when gas supplies will start to be restored.

"Engineers have established a base in the town and are now visiting every affected property to switch off their gas supplies at the meter. This is an important safety measure and part of the process of restoring supplies. More staff are being mobilised from across the region and, mindful of the weather conditions, we are in the process of transporting hundreds of fan heaters to Rothbury for distribution to the most vulnerable customers.

"Both Northern Gas Networks and United Utilities would like to apologise to the people of Rothbury for the temporary loss of their gas supply. We are doing everything in our power to restore it as soon and as safely as we can."

Coun Steven Bridgett is working with United Utilities to prioritise a list of residents who need help.

Keep checking for further updates.