Residents urged to check on vulnerable neighbours after major gas outage

Residents and voluntary groups in Kingsbridge, Salcombe and Malborough are being urged to check on neighbours who may be vulnerable following a major gas outage during freezing weather.

The outage happened on Saturday afternoon after a third party damaged a gas main, leaving around 4,600 properties without supply.

Wales & West Utilities has deployed more than 100 engineers, repaired the damaged main and is now working to safely restore gas services. Every affected property must be visited twice before supply can be reinstated – once to turn off the gas and again to turn it back on once checks are complete.

Residents are strongly encouraged to be at home when engineers call, or to leave a reply card if they are out.

Warm packs, including blankets, hot water bottles and electric heaters, are being distributed to customers on the Wales & West Utilities Priority Services Register, which supports vulnerable residents.

Devon County Council’s social care teams are working alongside Wales & West Utilities, South Hams District Council and local town and parish councils to ensure support also reaches those not currently on the register.

Residents, community groups and the voluntary sector are being asked to help identify anyone who may need extra support.

Anyone concerned about a neighbour is encouraged to contact Wales & West Utilities on 0800 912 2999 so help can be arranged.

Council leader Julian Brazil, who represents Kingsbridge, said the community response had been “incredible”, adding: “Please keep checking on neighbours and make sure anyone who needs help gets in touch.”

Residents are reminded to keep warm safely and not to use barbecues, camping stoves or generators indoors. Anyone worried about their health should contact NHS 111, or dial 999 in an emergency.

Five schools due to reopen after the Christmas break - Kingsbridge Primary, Kingsbridge Community College, West Alvington Primary, Malborough Primary and Salcombe Primary - may be affected. Parents and carers should monitor communications from schools and the council’s website for updates.