ALERT: Hundreds of homes near Dartmoor without power after Devon outage

UPDATE 15:30 - A National Grid Electricity Distribution spokesperson said:

"We are aware of a fault on our high voltage network causing a power cut for 996 properties near Crapstone this morning. Customers may have noticed power going on and off this morning as we worked to identify and repair the fault.

“All properties have now been restored, and we'd like to thank customers for their patience and understanding as we worked to reconnect them."

14:35 - A power cut in Crapstone has left properties still without electricity this afternoon (Friday, 19 September).

The fault was first reported at 8.39am and initially affected almost 1,000 homes across several postcodes, including PL20 6BU, PL20 6BW, PL20 6EN and PL20 7PP. 

Engineers have since restored supply to the majority of households, but a number remain off the grid.

National Grid Electricity Distribution confirmed the outage was “caused by a fault on the high-voltage power lines above ground”. 

READ NEXT: Tavistock traffic chaos grows as gas pipe dig halted for archaeologists

Crews have been working throughout the day to repair the issue, with the latest update putting the estimated restoration time at 5.00pm.

The company also warned that supplies may flicker on and off while repairs are carried out.

Earlier updates show how engineers have gradually reduced the number of homes without power:

11.45am: 996 properties off supply

12.29pm: 996 down to 293

1.32pm: 164 still affected

2.01pm: just 33 homes still waiting to be reconnected

By early afternoon, more than 960 homes had their power restored.

Residents are advised to check the National Grid Electricity Distribution website or call 105 for the latest information.