Our engineers are working around the clock to restore gas supplies to 270 customers in Maryport today (January 2), after water found its way into the local gas mains due to flooding.

Affected homes are in the Ellenborough area.

We are asking local Maryport customers who still have their gas supply to help us, by trying to reduce their gas use until the network has returned to normal.

Alternative accommodation is available for vulnerable customers without gas, and electric hot plates and heaters are being provided on a priority basis. Our customer care team is on hand to make sure local residents are given every possible support until supplies can be restored.

Mattie McBride, area manager for Northern Gas Networks said: “Our engineers are working hard to get the gas back on as quickly as possible. We first need to find where the water is getting into the gas network, then remove it and make a repair. Once that’s done, we will need to carry out safety checks at each property. It’s a demanding process, but we never take chances with our customers’ safety.

“We’d also ask local residents in Maryport who have not been affected by this incident to help us, by trying to reduce their gas use until we have returned the network to normal. For example, you can help by turning down your gas central heating or switching it off if practical. Please also try to only use one gas appliance at a time. All this helps to ease pressure on the local network.

“I can assure those without gas that everything is being done to restores supplies as quickly as possible.”

Customers with questions or concerns can call Northern Gas Networks on 0800 040 7766 option 5.

Anyone who smells gas should call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.