More than 300 homes have been left without power after a large power cut in Rochford this afternoon.

UK Power Networks engineers are investigating a high voltage overhead electricity line fault in Rochford which was reported before 2pm today (May 16).

It is believed the issue initially caused a "large" power cut affecting 649 properties across three postcode areas in Rochford.

While crews have managed to divert power back to some properties, 345 properties in the area are still affected.

Specialist control room engineers are diverting power remotely, but UK Power Networks say it is not always possible to restore everyone's power this way.

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Therefore, staff are also being sent to check equipment.

It is estimated that power will be back on from 3.30pm to 4.30pm, however this may change depending on what engineers find.

A statement on the UK Power Networks website says: "This outage is affecting multiple areas, so locations may seem further than you would expect.

"We have already sent staff to the area. At the same time, we try to restore power remotely by redirecting the electricity around the faulty section.

"It's possible your power may go on and off as we try to restore as much power as we can.

"The engineer will head to the local substation and after checking the network, they will attempt to restore more power from there.

"If unsuccessful, they will locate the cause of the issue and carry out repairs, which will take longer to get the lights on."

Three postcode areas are affected, including SS4 1, SS4 2 and SS4 3.