MORE than 1,200 properties across two large Isle of Wight villages are without power this morning (Wednesday).

The SSE say they have received reports of damage to the network, which has affected 127 post codes in the Niton and Whitwell area.

Reports started coming in to the SSE at 8.56am — around about the time the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called out to a telegraph pole fire in Southford Lane, Whitwell.

Read more: Fallen tree causes telegraph pole fire

It is believed a fallen tree was the cause of the fire.

Conditions in the South Wight this morning are very windy.

A total of 1,235 properties are without power currently with no engineers en route as yet.

The SSE has apologised to customers for the fault and predict power will be restored by 11am.

More to follow ... 

UPDATE 10.52am

SSE have issued a statement on the ongoing power outage.

“Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is working to repair a fault in and around Ventnor on the Isle of Wight, affecting some 1,200 customers," the company said.

“Engineers are on site working to restore supplies, after a fallen tree cut power to local homes and businesses.

"A tree cutting team is also in attendance, with power supplies expected to be restored by 2pm.”

UPDATE 2.30PM

SSE have estimated power will now return to affected areas at 3pm.

UPDATE 3.32PM

SSE have now re-estimated that power will be restored to affected properties, just in the PO38 area now.

Engineers remain on site.