COLCHESTER residents have been left without power overnight and disruption is expected to continue for several hours.

UK Power Networks was notified of a power cut affecting properties in the CO3 3 postcode area shortly after 12am today.

The energy distributor said it was the result of a fault with an underground electricity cable and that a road could be dug up to enable repairs to take place.

The affected area borders the city centre and includes the busy Lexden Road, Cymbeline Way, and Maldon Road.

A statement on the UK Power Networks website said: "We became aware of a power cut at 00.11. We’re sorry for any disruption this may have caused you.

"We didn’t know in advance there would be a power cut but now that we know, our teams will do everything they can to get your power back quickly.

"Engineers are now on site, carrying out investigations into the fault. Once they have completed their assessment, they will carry out repairs."

A further update sent to affected residents shortly after 7am said: "I'm very sorry you're still without power. Our engineers have been working hard to get you back on, but due to complications on-site with the ongoing repairs needed to the underground cable we now need to send out a relief team first thing this morning."

It is currently estimated the power will be back on between 10.30am and 11.30am today.