Sub-station explosion cuts power

An investigation is under way into the cause of an explosion at an electricity sub-station that left 60,000 homes without power for more than two hours.

The explosion happened in Bluebell Lane in Huyton, Merseyside, just before 0700 BST. Scottish Power said it managed to restore service just after 0900 BST.

Engineers suspect there was a fault with a transformer.

Traffic lights were out because of the loss of power and police put extra patrols into the area.

999 emergency

Houses in West Derby, Broadgreen, Woolton, Childwall, Gateacre, Netherley and Dovecot have all been affected.

Three fire engines were at the scene, along with engineering teams.

Scottish Power said now power had been restored by re-routing supplies, it was concentrating on investigation and repairs of the damage.

No-one was injured in the explosion.

Traffic issues

Merseyside Police said they had implemented a traffic management plan to help maintain safety on the main routes into Liverpool.

Control rooms have been set up in affected areas to deal with any traffic issues caused by the power cut.

A spokeswoman said they were working with other emergency services, local authorities and the power company.

"We would ask the travelling public to remain patient, allow extra time for their journeys and only use the 999 number in cases of emergency," she added.