SOME Crediton homes which are without power after a car reversed into a pole carrying electrical cables may not see power restored until midnight, says National Grid.

A car reversed into a pole carrying many electrical cables in Searle Street, Crediton, just before 1pm today, Thursday, June 27, which has resulted in the closure of the road.

Electricity supplies in the area flickered at many homes and businesses in the area and sparks were said to be flying from the pole immediately after the incident.

Crediton Police closed the road and a fire crew from Exeter attended to keep the area safe.

National Grid attended and found the damage to the base of the pole was more severe than first thought.

A National Grid spokesperson told the Courier that unfortunately those without power were unlikely to see power restored until at least midnight.

He said that a crew would be required to dig out and replace the damaged cable under the pavement which connects from the pole to the properties.

Engineers are currently on site but an excavation crew has not as yet arrived.

The Postcodes affected by the power outage are: EX17 2AT, EX17 3JP, EX17 3LA, EX17 3LF and EX17 3LG.

There is a possibility that power may be disconnected for a short time to enable the works to be completed.

While Searle Street has re-opened, an area has been fenced off for the National Grid staff vehicles.

The road is likely to close again to enable the works to take place.  

National Grid said that if anyone requires priority assistance, they should telephone 0800 6783 105.

Households requiring extra support can sign up to the National Grid Priority Services Register for future incidents.