Almost 400 properties were hit by a power cut – with some set to be without electricity for several hours.

The problem began shortly after 12.30pm and as of 9pm was still affecting some homes and businesses on the north Norfolk coast.

Supply to some buildings in Cromer, East Runton, West Runton, Overstrand, Northrepps and Sidestrand has been affected.

At first, 379 homes and businesses were hit thought UK Power Networks engineers were able to reroute power to 196 of them by 1.30pm.

Electricity supply was restored to more homes after, though engineers on the ground have discovered the problem, caused by an underground cable fault, is not as easy to fix as first anticipated.

In an update, UK Power Networks said: "There's a lot of work required on site, so we have decided to use temporary generators to provide power.

"To allow time for us to get the generators out to your area and connect them, we're now estimating we'll have power back on between 7.30pm and 8.30pm."

Update from 8.11pm

UK Power Networks now expect the power to be returned to the remaining houses between 11pm and 12am.

"With darkness approaching we understand that it can be unsettling to have a power cut," UK Power Networks said.

"It may help to locate a torch and anything else you may need so you can have it to hand just in case.

"If you have any concerns about this please do not hesitate to call us on 08003163105 which is free from landlines and mobiles.

"We will work to fix the problem as quickly and safely as possible."

Update from 10.43pm

UK Power Networks now expect the power to be returned to the remaining houses between 1am and 2am.

"As it's that time of night where most of our customers are going to sleep, we wanted to let you know that we will continue to send text messages throughout the night with progress updates," UK Power Networks said.

If you no longer want to receive updates, please text CANCEL to 80876 (standard text fees apply).