Second icy night looms for homes

More than 100 engineers have been called in to tackle the problem

A number of homes will be without gas for a second night after supplies to about 3,000 properties in the Scottish Borders were lost on Monday.

A gas governor shut down affecting thousands of people in the Kelso area.

More than 100 engineers have been working to restore supplies with priority being given to hospitals, care homes, sheltered housing and schools.

However, it is expected a number of properties will be without supplies as temperatures drop as low as -3C.

Scotia Gas Networks said the faulty gas installation which caused the loss of supplies had been repaired.

Engineers are now starting reconnecting homes to the mains supply.

Some properties in the Ednam area have already been reconnected.

Temporary heating and cooking units are available for vulnerable or elderly people and residents with young children or babies.

People need to know what the position is so they can make the necessary arrangements for alternative heating or even going to stay with friends or relatives John Lamont MSP Kelso five day weather forecast 'Severe' weather warning issued

These are being provided at a drop-in "warm" centre in Kelso High School.

A helpline is also available on 0845 070 1432.

Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP John Lamont visited the drop-in centre and praised the efforts being made to tackle the situation.

"However, there is still some degree of confusion as to when the gas supply will be fully reconnected," he added.

"Some people have been told their gas will be back on today whilst others have heard that it will not be until Thursday.

"People need to know what the position is so they can make the necessary arrangements for alternative heating or even going to stay with friends or relatives."

Scottish Borders Council has been working closely with SGN and NHS Borders to protect vulnerable residents.

It said contacts with the elderly and those with special healthcare needs would be maintained until supplies were restored.

General advice to householders facing a second night without gas supply is to concentrate on keeping one room in the house warm using electric heaters.

Anyone requiring urgent assistance should phone SBC's Bordercare on 01896 752111.