An energy company responsible for maintaining gas networks in East Anglia is being investigated by the industry watchdog.

Ofgem announced on Wednesday that it had launched an investigation into whether Cadent had failed to keep proper records of gas pipes (known as risers) in some blocks of flats which were part of its UK-wide network.

In a statement the energy regulator said it will be investigating whether Cadent kept and maintained records for all of its risers, whether it has appropriate systems in place to do so and, as a consequence, whether it maintains an 'efficient and economical pipeline'.

Cadent, formerly National Grid Gas Distribution, owns, operates and maintains gas pipes in East Anglia and the East Midlands which supply gas to around four million homes and businesses.

It employs more than 500 staff and contractors in the region, with depots and offices in sites including Ipswich, Norwich and Colchester.

It also runs regional distribution networks in the West Midlands, North West and North London.