Electricity has been restored in around 44,000 homes around the south west following St Jude’s storm.

Southern Electric Power Distribution (SEPD) has been working to repair faults caused by winds of over 80mph.

Homes in Melksham, Corsham, Chippenham, Trowbridge, Bradford Leigh, Pewsey and Atworth lost power following the storm.

Alan Broadbent, SSEPD’s head of engineering, said: “The majority of the high voltage faults and a considerable number of low voltage faults have been visited and repaired already today. 

“We will continue to work on a significant numbers of affected circuits and expect to see considerable progress this evening.”

Mr Broadbent said that he anticipated power being restored to a further 56,000 homes tonight. 

Wiltshire Council has had 120 staff dealing with highways issues relating to the storm with them clearing 180 fallen trees and branches across the region today.

Anyone wishing to report an electricity problem to Southern Electric can call 0800 072 7282.