A Cumbrian MP is calling for the army to be deployed to help communities cut off by Storm Arwen.
Thousands of homes are still without electricity across the county with Electricity North West working to restore power to those affected.
Penrith MP Neil Hudson said: “There are areas in Penrith and the Border and further afield that are still experiencing a power outage and this has been the situation for several days now. I am working with colleagues at Westminster and highlighting the crisis that is affecting so many homes and properties across Cumbria and further afield.
“I have made representations to Government and have requested that the army be deployed in order to help all those who are struggling due to having no power. Please be assured that I and my team are liaising with the relevant authorities and making them aware of the problems constituents are facing.
“I have been in contact with Electricity North West and highlighted areas that are not appearing on the website when people are checking the postcode. For those at North Stainmore, Kirkby Stephen, and Helton, please be assured I have contacted Electricity North West and stated that some houses are without power in these areas. North Stainmore is now on the website and you are able to be updated on the status of the works when putting in your postcode.
“Please continue to check the website (www.enwl.co.uk) if you have access to the internet to keep informed and let your neighbours know. I am pleased to hear that Matterdale now has power. If any home is still without power please contact Electricity North West on 105.
“Electricity North West is providing services to some areas in Cumbria with hot water and food. Please follow this link that has more information on where these provision schemes are taking place: http://www.enwl.co.uk/about-us/news/stormarwen/food-and-welfare-provision-locations/
“For those who require urgent assistance due to the power outage, please contact 101 for the police or 105 for Electricity North West.
“I want to thank all the teams at Electricity North West, the emergency services, councils and volunteers who are working day and night to support folk without power in these most difficult of circumstances. I would like to thank all the businesses and community hubs for offering support to those without power. It has been a difficult few days for so many and it is wonderful to see folk are working together to help communities out.
“I have been liaising with Electricity North West and the teams are working hard all across the County to get people connected. Please stay safe and look after each other.”
