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It is now Thursday 9PM. The electricity was restored in the early hours of this morning however this power cut also affected Virgin media Land Lines (which are still down) There are no Virgin media land Lines working. We were told that lines would be up at 1pm today which past without change and we are currently told lines will be up at 1PM tomorrow -WE WAIT IN ANTICIPATION !!!!!!!!

- Mrs Taylor, Bexleyheath. Kent

firstly - this was not kids or teenagers - how would they know how to cause this maximum damage without being killed - and i doubt the place to be on the first day of the holidays is an industrial and electrical estate rather than say ... bluewater? and they would not know what tools to use anyway - teens and "yobs" are not criminal masterminds and dont plan out what there next action is they just do - and i doubt cancelling all the electricity in nearly 4 big towns is high on their to do lists = whoever did this knew what they were doing
secondly - yes it has been on the news but where is it in the newspapers? surely a "vandalised" powercable that lost electricity got nearly 3 days to 100,000 news would make a credible news story
AND handy that EDF dont have to pay compensation as this was a third paarty incident = its rediculous to blame children and teenagers - they would not know where to start and certainly would not have made it out of there alive

- Amy, dartford kent

Hi to all the "survivors", i tried to respond to some comments yesterday to those like jc se1, lilly w/kennsington, California and Italy, but the p.c at work crashed, possibly a good thing since I was “telling you about yourselves”. Some of those comments made by these people made me wonder their level of intelligence and question the point they were trying to make! Anyway, I am happy to say that last nite I had electricity from 6pm-9pm and then from 12am right until now (I hope). I guess its over?! I cant believe the amount of food waste that must have occurred during this time and I sincerely hope that we all get some type of compensation regardless of who’s to blame. So pay up! I want to thank all of those who supported and agreed with the residents of KENT living in KENT, especially that of Geoff in B/heath you kicked ass! And hahaha the amusing Sean Brommett! For real Martin H, I went shopping after your top tip but was in disbelief when I couldn’t purchase a camping stove!!! I was told that an influx of Welsh people had nabbed them all!!! Anyway, its been good to have a place to off load our frustration, i really applaud us all! We made it! Arh what the hell, lets keep the t.v and lights on, cook all the rotting food (send to EDF) leave the hot water running and ignore the people we were forced to speak to due to the powercut! make up for lost time huh. Yes, im joking incase those not affected start being high and mighty!! AGAIN!!! Take care all.x

- Colourful, Barnehurst in KENT

Im hopeing the power stays on for this weekend for those who are getting married in dartford on saturday .
My neice is one of them ,she has been so excited about it so hope all will be ok

Kimi,Waranna, Australia

- Kim, Waranna, Australia

This has been a pain for most people but we have all coped. I do feel sorry for those elderly people stuck bed bound or those disabled and those that rely on electricity for health reasons but the rest of us, come on, get a grip. i, myself have children and its been incredibly annoying. i have lost all my fridge and freezer stuff but in my mind i still have my health and ability to wash, eat, and low and behold candles for light if needed or even a torch. We have water and many foods that you can eat raw. As for mobile phones, yes you cant deny they are useful in an emergency but how did people cope years ago? Mobile phones are more dangerous to our health and its about time people was told the truth - major health risks including BRAIN TUMOURS, yes and its worse for kids. Every one should take the time to look into the dangers. Microwaves too, they leak radiation, why dont you do the test yourself. Have two identical plants and water one with fresh water and the other with cooled microwaved water over 3weeks.

- Woman Who Makes Sense To Man On Moon In Crayford, Erith , Kent

Wed 22Jul09, 2345hrs - power back on at 2100hrs, but just for 3 hours or for good? I'll know soon enough. Whether now fixed or not quite yet, well done to the electrical engineers who have been working on the repair. A difficult and potentially job, I'm sure. As others have commented, how something so strategically important can have been so unprotected is hard to understand. If was thieves, they are always with us and we can but hope for capture and punishment. If vandalism by children or "youths", whom should we blame - the feckless children, their feckless parents or ourselves for allowing our society to disintegrate to this extent? As for Kent vs London, Rod in Essex, dlr in Bexleyheath, "London", and others, don't confuse local authorities with geography. Kent is Kent: Bits of it are govened by Kent County Council, other bits are governed by the London Boroughs of Bexley and Bromley and yet other bits are governed by Medway Council. Do you think Rochester is in Kent, Rod in Essex? No, in your terms it isn't, because it is governed by Medway Council, a unitary authority, and Kent County Council has no say at all. Oxfordshire County Council controls the famous Vale of the White Horse. It is still where it has always been since Saxon times - in Berkshire. Does being governed by a London Borough and the Mayor of (Greater) London alter my geography? No, Bexleyheath is still in Kent. Take a look at www.abcounties.co.uk

- Geoff, Bexleyheath, Kent

Wow, that's it Colourful from Barnehurst, that told old Rod! Quick one for Martin H from Hitchin, I went shopping on Sunday as well, had my list Bread, milk, eggs, CAMPING STOVE! I live in Bexleyheath, not Wales! Anna in Welling Kent, glad I made you laugh in these trying times.

- Sean Brommett, Bexleyheath KENT

having not had a shower for 2 days (away at relations monday) i have just had a shower at work but face another night of no electricity after some thoughtless peoples actions i hope they are caught and punished and all of us that have been incovienienced are compensated for food we have had to throw away. why are we not being told by loud hailer in the streets whats going on?? thank god for the camping shop who supplied the gas so we could cook

- Angela, Dartford UK

As there have been no landlines(for anyone with a cordless phone or for me on virgin media), the mobile networks have had to take the brunt. Surely now we should realise that our only form of contact is mobile phones but as seen as certain people moan about them being an eyesore, or are worried that the radiowaves might kill them one way or another, then people like me with a young toddler and a newborn child have to suffer with poor communication, especially if the neighbours are suffering from the same problems. How many times, i pose to someone in my area, have you had to rely on a mobile in negative circumstances? Then to the people who oppose these masts, why? Do you have proof that mobile radiowaves will kill you? How do you charge the mobile you ask? Jump on a bus, to a pub not affected by power cut and use their supply!

- Man On The Moon, crayford, !kent!

Just to say we're coping. Fortunatly I have never been tempted to cook by electricity, have a small tv hooked up to a 12v to 240v converter on my caravan battery (so my wife doesn't miss her progs)which was fully charged and have plenty of torches and the like. I haven't looked in the freezer yet as keeping the doors shut as much as possible will keep the cold in.

Fortunatly the power is being connected for 3 hours in 9 helping to keep the temperatures down in the fridge and freezer and allowing us to grab a shower when it's on. Meanwhile we have a large saucepan on the hob to boil water for washing and washing-up. We have a small saucepan for boiling water for tea & coffee.

If I do have rotting food in the fridge or freezer I would like to get the chance to throw it at the mindless vandals that caused the power loss.

- Ian, Darford, uk

i think this is sickening n bloody stressful i have a child of 16 months n a nephew who had to stay wiv me as my sister in law has no power at all in slade green we both live in tower blocks n her stair well didnt even av bak up power for lights so we have had to throw all of her food away n had to take two screamin babies down dark stair wells againts health n safety that is n if my family fall down the tower block stair what compensation will we get this world is pefetic nothing has been done your probably all on ur tea breaks now !

- Sabina Couchman, erith kent

I think it is completely wrong for people who are not experiencing this to comment. Yes, its not the end of the world but some people really do depend on electricity as a way of life. For example, members of my family are disabled and in a wheelchair,so because of the power cut they can not use the lift to get upstairs to use the toilet, to have a shower, to sleep. Also, some people can not even cook due to electric hobs etc, so all those who are moaning about us moaning, I would love for you to have no electricity in any way for 3-4days, let's see how long it takes for you to start complaining...!!!!!!

- Anon, Erith, Kent

my father is in sheltered accomodation in phoenix place, he is still without gas, edf's comments on my fathers age of 90 were-its inconvenient for any one, not just the elderly. my father is very thin and loses body temperature very quickly. Now dont you think more urgency and compassion would be shown!

- Johnny Clay, dartford england

since our lights were extinguished i have been searching for a way to see;my eyes are lost, god knows where.you who know me, tell me who i am,who is a friend, and who an enemy.a murderous river has been unleashedinto my veins; hatred beats in it.be patient; a flash of lightning will comefrom another horizon like the white handof moses with my eyes, my lost diamonds.

MODERNIZM AND POWER BLACKOUT == SHAME AND EMBARRASSEMENT== WHAT THE HECK...........

- Ilyas Orhanli, manchester

Could the people not in the affected areas who are telling us in the affected areas to stop moaning etc STFU! you WOULD be doing the same if it happened to you. And it is partly EDFs fault for not having adequate security! if it was vandals.

have lost hundreds of pounds of food too. im lucky to have a gas stove but can not use the gas oven without electric.

- John Cusick, Bexeyheath

For those who have made ignorant comments such as 'if theres no electricity how are you commenting on this post' just to inform you although there is a powercut in the south east, thast doesn't mean that people stop going to work, as well as those who not only do not live in this area of the country or the country at all, yes ITALY i am speaking to you, there is no need for you to make insulting statements such as 'gosh, families will have to talk to eachother rather than watch tv'. I'm sure if/when this type of situation happens to you, then you will understand the implications that people in these areas are facing. I applaud all of those who are coping with the blackout and I hope that in the future this problem doesn't occur again. And Victoria from California,no the power cables do not affect the water supply, what a dumb question, but how exactly do you heat water for your household without an operating boiler. If I were you, I would retract your comment because it is ridiculous.

- Megan, Erith, Kent

Has anyone actually considered going to the site of the fire/cable damage and actually asking someone there if it was vandalism and also while you're there see what security, if any, protects such an apparently vital power supply instead of just taking EDF's and Dartford Borough Council's word for it? Becuase you can be sure that they will do WHATEVER and say WHATEVER it takes to keep their shareholders happy while we, the long suffering customers, just have to bend over and take it up the whatsit!!!

- Kelly, Dartford, KENT

I work from home and i was left with no electricity and because of this I lost 2 days money and have been told be edf that there is nothing i can do to claim my lost of earnings, so because of this fire i have lost 2 days money and i have also lost my no claims discount on my house insurance.

- Samantha, Dartford

It’s unfortunate there has been a power cut, and I sympathise with the elderly, the infirm and anyone who needs power to keep animals alive, i.e. fish and reptiles
However I believe most of the residents of these areas which are having power cuts are not being resourceful enough. It really isn’t the end of the world and I hear it will be over tomorrow!!

- Lilly, West Kensington, London

I was wondering yesterday whilst on my way back if the power had returned. Then I notice that people were talking on the street to neighbours across the street, people I had never seen before. They had smiles on their faces and a song in their hearts.. you could see that this unfortunate circumstances had nurtured peoples will to be friendly, open, approachable… families were spending more time with family and friends –Ask yourselves.. is it really that bad? I would say the majority of people that are harping on this site that have supposedly been impacted in such a catastrophic manor are those whom microwave meals are a large part of there existence. Spend more time with family, friends & bond with your children before you end up on the Jeremy Kyle show!

- Anon, Bexleyheath, Kent

I was wondering yesterday whilst on my way back if the power had returned. Then I notice that people were talking on the street to neighbours across the street, people I had never seen before. They had smiles on their faces and a song in their hearts.. you could see that this unfortunate circumstances had nurtured peoples will to be friendly, open, approachable… families were spending more time with family and friends –Ask yourselves.. is it really that bad? I would say the majority of people that are harping on this site that have supposedly been impacted in such a catastrophic manor are those whom microwave meals have become such a large part of there existence. Spend more time with family, friends & bond with your children before you end up on the Jeremy Kyle show!

- Anon, Bexleyheath, Kent

To all those posting comments about how we should stop moaning, it's a shame you weren't at my house at around 10pm last night. My 3 year old boy was violently ill in bed and we had to strip his pyjamas off, strip the bed off, clean him and clean the bed with no lighting or hot water. After finally getting him to sleep a nearby house alarm went off (again) waking everybody up at 4am. Yes, we're "getting on with it" but some of the comments on here are on the verge of insulting. A bit of support would be welcome instead of this childish, gleeful goading.

- Matthew, Dartford, UK

This clearly shows that EDF are only here for the money - they have NO regard for the power supply to the UK and NO Disaster Recovery Plan. Although as pointed out it SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED.

EDF are not fit and proper people to run such an important national asset and the franchise (license to PRINT MONEY) it should be taken away from them - without any compensation.

- Chez, Bexleyheath

somebody mentioned about not being informed of what was going on or being updated of progress,,,, if you register your details ( email address and mobile number ) at http://www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk you will be informed on a weekly or sometimes more often basis of what your LOCAL police have been doing in the last week and also be informed of local problems and disasters. in the last few days text messages and emails have been sent out keeping people up to date to a certain extent of what is going on and to reasure people that extra police patrols are about whilst there is no power. it is a free service just register your details at http://www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk/

- Eddie, welling, kent

Power is backup in Bexleyheath in DA7 5NW, came on at 3am and is still on now at 830am 22/7/09.

- Matt, Bexleyheath

I can't BELIEVE people who would say 'what's the big deal?' And don't give me the 'I've been in a blackout before' nonsense. Cause if you haven't, then tell me this; have you watched EVERYTHING you could do/ use JUST STOP WORKING for over a day? Sit idly by while your well spent money on TONS of food just slowly GOES BAD. And you're cut off from the outside world, STARING at it while it has glorious lights while your partiular section of the world doesn't have the smallest OUNCE of power because we're not high on the PRIORITY LIST of those that "NEED" power.

Well i am sorry i'm angry. And i'm sorry, guess my struggling barely middle class family doesn't deserve to have power for over 2 days...

- Pat T., Slade Green, Kent

? ! Madness! 96% of the world lives in absolute poverty and a power cut sends a proportion of the SE into a frenzy.

- Jc, se1

Children allegedly? How secure was this place? Steel doors, security wires? May sound dramatic, but if 'children'? can bring such a large area to it's knees in the 21st century causing mass financial losses, makes you wonder if maybe it could just be a trial run for more dramatic and serious 'plots' to come. Don't really think this was kids!

- Paul, LONDON

well i tend to agree with most people on here tonight, it is very inconvenient for some to have no electric for a few days.
but hey i have to laugh when my daughter wants to know what i am going to do about the fact that there is no internet.
hahahahaha so funny
oh no msn or facebook
hahahahahhahahah
reality is for some this is really a pretty crap time

- Paul, belvedere Kent

The national grid is set up to punt current to one area or another as needed. It is part of the redundancy built in to any modern power distribution system any where in the world and does exist here.

What is shocking is that EDF was unable to accomplish this.

This indicates that the national grid is being pushed to its max limits at all times with NO overhead.

This is a nation of 60 000 000. Can any right minded person comprehend that when approx 400 000 lose power, that the national grid servicing the other 59 600 000 can not shift power to compensate for what is nationally very small.

Pure and utter negligence.

This should worry all in the UK. It might be your city next.

Arson or not this is corporate negligence.

- John, Dartford, UK

EDF have no back up plan! What would have happened if it was a terrorist attack across the South East

- Richard, Dartford

Luckily for us it was vandals, imagine if had been terrorists or that ilk.

- William, Hay~Heath UK

If your postcode is DA you are in Kent if it is SE you are in GREATER LONDON as set up by a TORY Government in 1963 as the Tories could never win the LCC so they created the GLC.

Bexleyheath is in the London Borough of Bexley. The fact the post office still means nothing afterall I went to school in Clerkenwell yet near the school was a wall with a notice "Property of the County of Middlesex" a county that was abolished when the GLC was set up.

Its a pity you are not still in Kent as London would not then be cursed with the disaster that is Boris Johnson a Maoyor of London voted in by people who still think they dont live in London..

- Melvyn, Canvey Island, Essex

Colourful, Barnehurst in KENT

Barnehurst - London borough of Bexley
- Met Police (Not Kent Police)

We've been London since 1960's. We are historically Kent but now London.

- Dlr, Bexleyheath, London

Maybe it was vandals, maybe it wasn't, but either way, electricity in the UK shouldn't be run by a French company. Especially when the under-performing chief-exec is on 900k a year!

- Paxton Pat, London

Keep the comments comming...while some are educative, some are just plain stupid, most are utterly hilarious. Awesome!

Oh Welling is Kent....and it rocks!

- Bunmi, Welling

all the people with 'clever' and 'do-gooder' comments to say rather interestingly do not live in Dartford or the surrounding areas ... so would people from Essex, London and Middlesex please keep your points to yourself as we continue to cope with a second night of darkness - and as for those comparing it with years gone by - its not releveant - everything is designed nowadays to use electricity - the last thing we need is people who HAVENT been affected taking the moral high-ground; and yes thanks we WILL COPE, and I speak for myself and my neighbours when I say that we have all pulled together to helped the aged, infirm and babies! IM SURE AS SOON AS IT HAPPENS TO YOU, YOU WILL FIND CAUSE TO MOAN

The FACT is that a 140'000 volt cable on a bridge (which i may add is very close to where I live) which is so important as an electrical artery to South East london SHOULD BE SUITABLE GUARDED ... I have seen these cable bridges close up (there are many around the M25 marshes) ... ALL that stops access is NO FENCE, but just a single padlock on a metal door - behind the door, a ladder and invitation to wreck the supply to 100'000 homes.


- Thomas, Dartford, Kent, UK

Gosh, families will have to talk to each other rather than watch tv, and eat sandwiches or get a take-away - how awful! Stop moaning and just get on with it - it's not the end of the world. Use your energy to go and help people who really need it.

- Liz, Italy

Rod from essex, your effort to inform us that the areas
B-Heath, Welling, Sidcup etc are not in Kent is truly pointless! Of course we are in Kent, since Kent is and has been part of my address for over 20 years! I think i/we are the better judges of where we live and the area we come under! not you. You are a bore, that im sure all of us in KENT can agree on! Anyway, i just want to applaud all of those who, like myself are trying manage with the craziness of this situation. We should all bare in mind that this is not "one of those things" this is most likely to have been a deliberate act of vandalism. This vandalism could have been prevented if the accessibility to the cables was not so easy! To not have a back up, is insulting and really dumb!!! are we not a growing nation with technology becomming more and more advanced? So how are we in this situation? The backlash of this will be endless! The culprits of this blackout should be punished with NO exception to age! Vandalism (if thats what this is proven to be) to this degree should be treated as a serious crime.

- Colourful, Barnehurst in KENT

Thanks to the blackout for the 1st time this year iam actually dreading getting off work and going home to the Mrs, definately purchasing some ear-plugs on the way home lol

- Jay, Erith

Far from frightening - during the day at least I was pleasently surprised how easy the traffic moved through Bexleyheath and Welling with 2 major sets of lights out at Danson and Welling corner - everyone seemed to be getting a fair chance at moving and the usual queues down Danson road and welling high st were non existant - perhaps this shows that we are overzealous with traffic light junctions and alternatives should be looked at.
As for everything else - it does hit home how much we rely on electricity - at least with a gas hob you can boil up some water in a pan - since it's summer theres always the barbeque!

- Diane, Bexleyheath, Kent

I agree with Dave from Welling, and would go as far to say that the management of EDF is accountable for the running and security of their network.

The kids do not walk around at 12:47 on a monday afternoon with Boltcroppers and a can of petrol.
and stumble upon a strategic target.

EDF advise all losses are claimed through our insurance and that they are talking to OFGEM. No doubt trying to cover their backsides.

If they had secured what is a highly critical part of the network and this happend then fair enough but they have not afforded the consumer and business community any protection.

36 hours when we have already had 28 hours without water and power is unacceptable. Again it is down to public spirit to help those vunerable people as the council of Bexley who spend fortunes on their own catering cannot arrange something for the aged.

BEXLEY COUNCIL - PIGS WITH THEIR SNOUT IN THE TROUGH !!

- Simon, Bexleheath

In answer to Chris g,dartford .....re the trolley

When the chips are down you use your initiative ..its been by the rubbish bins for weeks, just one of a few in the area !
You make the most of a bad situation and the food was pretty dammed good too !

- Alan, Dartford,UK

Andrew from Lothians - in absolute hysterics at your comment!
Although I really hope that you are joking and not really living in a tent - in which case I now feel guilty for laughing!

- Sarah, Belvedere, Kent

The luxury of having the French in charge the electricity. Carla Bruni will be around to apologise soon.

- Ian, Reading, England

@ Simon Maxwell, Gravesend.

Please do not come on here and justify the fact that a bunch of vandals can wipe out power to 60,000 homes so easily. Whilst I respect the difficulty with the repair (I have been loosely involved in the industry before) IT SHOULDN'T HAVE HAPPEND IN THE FIRST PLACE. Where is the CCTV?, Anti climb paint, barbed wire etc etc. Oh yeah, musn't forget the shareholder's divedends now! I bet EDF's plush reception has better security than this cable bridge, which is a joke.

- Dave, Welling

If you have an elderly or disabled neighbour please help them as anyone that used to get meals-on-wheels no longer has this service and can only rely on microwaved meals - which they obviously can't cook.

I'm quite disgusted that Bexley Council didn't have an emergency back-up for these vulnerable people.

- Denise, Welling, England

Exactly no one is giving any updates and all they are saying is that it is gonna be 36 hours from today or more! So we are looking at Thursday if we are lucky that is! Its absolutely ridiculous and is causing havoc. I have no water either in my flat as the generator needs electricity so with no water and no power we have been seriously screwed. Lets hope when everything comes back on nothing has been fried!

- Freddie, Dartford, Kent

Sean Brommett Bexleyheath Kent!
One question... was you allowed to vote for a candidate in the last election for a mayor of London if so you are in greater london and not Kent.If not, then you are indeed in the garden of England and not on the dung heap of life.

- Leonard Lillywhites, N. London

Rod in Epping - you have NO idea what you are talking about - do you?! You wanna come across so clever, but you've made a proper fool out of yourself!

- Lise, Bexleyheath - KENT!

Working for the power industry, I know and understand a. why there is no back up system, and b. why its taking so long to repair. It is totally impractical to have a back-up national grid system, and safety of the workers reparing tha cables is paramoint. Any damaged cables need to be inspected and before inspecting all need to be isloated and earthed. Would any of you put your mitts on a 400,000 volt cable without making sure its dead? no me either.
Instead of being critical of the energy supplier, we should be trying to track down the idiots who caused the damage.. After all, its them who are to blame. Also, you can pick up generators relatively cheaply from a well known auction site. I have one in my garage for just such occasions which is man enough to light the house and run the freezer and heating.. It will get worse over the coming years if greenpeace have thier way.

- Simon Maxwell, Gravesend, Kent

I do hope Alan Crouch is going to return the up turned Sainburys trolley un-damaged from his little bbq!

The theft of trolleys is not only outrageous but raises the price of our food!

- Chris G, Dartford

People in West Africa countries can be without electricity for weeks, but they are prepared for it. I think we should be prepared for things like this at times. But to be honest it is difficult to cope without eletricity after a day.

It is good that it had happened around this time of the year when the weather is warmer and the children are on holidays. Unfortunately it is raining outside so no outdoor bbq and no going to the parks.
Please stop being hard on people without gas supply who only utilise electricity.

Some hints like we do in Africa
if you have gas cooker get matches and continue with your cooking. you can boil your water on the cooker for a wash.
Another problem is that we can not go out because we can not get petrol locally.

It is frustrating, but we can survive this.
EDF pls keep us posted.

- Nike, Sade Green, Kent

Sean Brommett - can't stop laughing at your message

- Anna, Welling, still in KENT last time i checked

EDF energy website - electricity supply will be restored on a rolling basis.

postcodes DA - 161/163/162/68/74/53/51/68/75/76/175/176/81 {From 0900 today 3 hours on followed by 6 hours off - this is a repeating pattern until permanent repairs are completed on Thursday}



postcodes DA - 163/161/75/51/53/52/67/74/162/68/74 [also SE20 and SE18 2] {From 1200 today 3 hours on followed by 6 hours off - this is a repeating pattern until permanent repairs are completed on Thursday}

- Christine, Welling, Kent

If you have no electricity, how are you commenting on this story?

- Anon, London

If it helps any one, Sainsbury's at Bexleyheath, Crayford and Dartford are open and trading.

- Linda Barham, Abbey Wood, London

No problemo. I can easily cook on a bar-b-que in a first floor flat. As my cooker is electric and that of my neightbours we'll have no problem even making a cup of tea! Hopefully they will find the culprits and give them a good thrasing and lock them up and throw away the key. Unfortunately this will be just wishful thinking on my part! Oh the doenut called Victoria from California - how do you wash in a washing machine if you don't have any electricity? Washing machine is plugged into electricity, boiler is run by electricity, electicity heats water, do you understand where I'm going with this? I suppose you could wash things by hand with cold water that would get them nice and clean! Judith - everything years ago was different, having no power nowadays is totally different to years ago as we are now so reliant on it for absolutely everything.

- Sue, Orpington, Kent

why, in this century, should it take so long to fix this problem..??? Why would people ask such a stupid question. Why in this century over any other.... people are still fixing the repairs. not robots!! As to being kept updated - how? Being rung, emailed (you wont see it), texted - who would you like to know. Go to your neighbour and see if they are able to give you an update. Get talking to people rather than waiting for them to come to you. As to a "back up" generator in case these things happedn. Find out how the national grid run the system before you make stupid comments. This is a rare event and all you can dod is moan about your lost oven chips from the freezer. Care a little more about the aged and infirm whilst this is going on. pop in on them and check they are ok.

- Rachroo, London

Its a shame this has happened, I am in a 3rd floor flat, my freezer has defrosted, I have no garden so I cannot have a BBQ, the people who are saying "just get on with it" obviously have electric, for some of us it is not that easy! Apparently we will get no compensation as this was caused by vandals and the EDF helpline says we will have no power until thurday at 9pm! great!

- Chrystina, Dartford

I understand the fury, having lost electricity and consequently all the other things everyone else has mentioned myself.

However, I have to say that a ten year old playing near the site of the fire when it started told me clearly that he saw "men" with balaclavas running away. I deduce that the "men" were actually large teenagers, but of course, I could be wrong! So, sorry to those who don't believe it was vandalism - I think it probably was... Kids don't think of making up stories about vandals in order to protect electricity companies... However, why haven't the electricity board put in far superior protective measures in order to prevent this - the supplies should be locked up better than Fort Knox. The on-costs will be extortionate!

- Jill, Bexleyheath

Perhaps a nationwide black out would help bring down this mad Labour government. It would also stop them spying on everyone with the CCTV cameras.

- Jo, London

I will not have electricity until after everything is sorted - no rota or anything

yes it is difficult with no electricity but as alarms were going off from 2:30am due to being confused or whatever I am not an alarm specialist is what I am more concerned with - hot water I can get from somewhere - sleep I actually need; this is what is making me wish that these vandals will be found and dealt with

and in the dark ages I doubt they had house alarms so they could actually sleep at night without a constant loud beeping

I may sound whiny but I bet you all - can i just add that HAVE electricity in more than just work (where I am now on my break trying to find out when I can have a hot shower in my own home again) - would be whiny too

- Amy, dartford, UK

people moaning about the roads is rediculous - its the best i've ever seen Dartford's traffic in the ten years iv been here ... with the traffic lights out there is no traffic ... evidently the lights have always been the chaos because they haven't been programmed effectively enough!! But come on please - we have headlights, brains and are surely intelligent enough to drive if you managed to pass the test ... if you think Dartford is dark, have you never driven the motorway between junctions, have you never driven abroad, have you never driven in Cornwall or the countryside??

...HOWEVER...the comments from EDF and the Council (which may I add have all been hear-say) - for the price we pay you think they would send a door to door round to inform us - or do they forget we DONT have internet/mobiles/TV/radio due to the cut ... they need to stop patronising, give us a time to expect a restore and give us helpful advice - washing cold ISNT an helpful advice, we thought of that!

The biggest impact has been on local commuting - I had to arrange family to deliver a tank of diesel to my house as I couldn't fill up at my local Total garage!

- Thomas, Dartford, Kent, UK

Michael kensington London... spot on my friend, you know i know pity the old bill dont.

- David, London

Well it looks like everyone is enjoying the blackout as i look at the pictures.

Just like the 1940s blackout british and proud.

- Martin, Sheffield

I was visiting my boyfriend at his house in Crayford when the power went out. It was a blessing in disguise really. Although i do not condone the vandals actions it did allow us to spend some quality time together to have a chat and cuddle in the candle light. Kinda romantic really, and a little treat for me as i have not long been out of hospital after a severe bout of swine flu.

- Dave Winkle, Southwark, London

I used the time when the power was out to have a liason with the man in my life, hopefuly the power will be off again tonight, hey Will? X

- Johnny Post, Crayford, kent

If it was vandalism, as is being reported... where the hell was the security?

- Sally, Dartford, Dartford, Kent

Quick message to Rod in Epping, our Postal Address is Bexleyheath KENT, so thanks for the history lesson!! The day we need a lecture from somebody in Essex, last one out turn off the light, oh you can't, we've got a powercut!!

- Sean Brommett, Bexleyheath KENT

Is it just me or is anyone else rolling on the floor laughing at Martin from Hitchin's question:-

Does no one in SE England keep a camping stove



- Sarah Bradshaw, Enfield, Middx

Just shows how much we take electricity and hot water for granted. Millions of people in the world have neither. Hope the pleasure of a hot water shower and a hot meal lasts longer than your first and we start thinking more about how much we do have here in the UK. It was lovely to see all the positive comments of how people made the best of it, well done to those!

- Rob, Ealing, UK

Why are you all moaning? Instead of wasting you the moaning at the electricity company get off you arse and help the police find out who done this, but oh no sorry i forgot, your English vandals can do as they like and we will just moan,

- David Gasson, Guidford England

Yes Rod, Epping, ESSEX, UK you are being a bore

"Just one point (and I am being a bore)....all of you in Welling, Sidcup, Bexleyheath and Orpington.....you are NOT in Kent, but Greater London and have been for at least 40 years. So it's "Sidcup, Greater London" for example.

Just thought I'd clear that point. And Middlesex was absorbed into Greater London ages ago too. Class dismissed."

My postal address is Belvedere, Kent, thank you very much.

- Karen, Belvedere, darkest Kent

I live close to where the fire was and when speaking to a policeman,he stated it could be electrical or vandals, they had to keep an open mind until they had investigated. Cant see EDF admitting it was not vandals...just think of how much they will have to pay compensation wise !!!!

- Alan, Dartford,UK

Rod in Essex - if Welling etc is no longer part of Kent, why are our addresses Kent and our post codes DA???

- Anna, Welling

100,000 homes affected [and counting] according to latest BBC news!

Unfortunately we're destined to experience much more of this misery in Brown's Banana Republic, with scores of rampant [recklessly 'imported' international] criminal gangs now on the make across Britain.
If it ain't 'disappearing' manhole covers it's lead roof 'stripping', and now 'live' copper wire removal.

- Dave, Cumbria

Take it that schools out now ?

- Grim Reaper, Hell

Well, get used to it guys. Most experts are warning of 'brown' outs within 5 years (i.e. your TV wouldn't work, but the kettle might); largely due to the governments totally incapable capacity planning. Additionally, more bodies, companies and governments are (rightly) encouraging the development of electric vehicles, which will further sap the system 5-10 years from now: It is probable that we will experience regular black outs unless we start addressing this issue. We really need a government with the courage to build up our nuclear & renewables infrasture NOW, rather than 'consulting' with upmteen consultants, planning officers, unions and quango's, thus achieving 3/5ths of 5/8ths of sod all.

Also in answer to Mrs Gregory's comment (why was there no back up). The UK has a very advanced and well designed electricity grid thanks to engineering done from the 50's onwards, and as a result, most of it is backed up. I'm guessing that the line was broken at the EHV end of the system (i.e. where the power has just left the station), which is not something you can back up without great expense.

- James Mcilwraith, London

Power was restored in Welling around 9am, but has since gone again - around 12pm!

- Anna, Welling

While I agree with many people that it's not the end of the world, please don't keep saying buy a bbq and wash in cold water. If you live in a top floor flat with only electric power you don't have any water. Neither hot or cold. None. I can't flush the toilet or fill a sink or use any water cos I don't have any!! And I'm not sure that setting a bbq up in my small flat when I have no water to extinguish it - and no phone line or mobile (cos I can't charge it) so would be unable to call anyone if the whole thing caught light - is such a good idea! I'm not sure what the answer is but please don't act like we are all pathetic and unable to cope. Some of us really are stuck and will have to throw out everything in our fridges and freezers too so I think we should be entitled to some compensation. Surely the electric company has insurance for just this sort of thing?

- Anon, Dartford

I do find it funny that all everyone does is moan,
We are out of electric for a few hours, some people have had none at all since 11am yesterday(20th)
Its not the end of the world,
Surely if you have power, stop sitting on here moaning about something that has happened nothing more can be done but wait until it is fixed, and go ask people without electric if they need any help, check on elderly neighbours ect.

I had a great day with my family with no electric, fortunately I was about to bring my son home and have electric, my freezer is now full with families frozen food and I have people coming round to cook meals and have a bath etc,

Ok so its a big inconvenience and yes maybe there should be a back up, but hey, its been good and brought alot of us closer together,

stop moaning and go help people with no power

- Kerrie, Belvedere

Yes black outs are a pain in the neck. But does nobody in this area have gas cookers or know how to start a bonfire. Lots of people complaining about not being able to cook or wash. Use your imagination if you need hot water build a bonfire its not difficult all you need is some wood, Paper and cardboard (And if you happen to have one a metal bin) then you can heat as much water as you like and cook your food as well

- Emma, London

Just found out that we will have power back at 3AM to 6AM ! yeah thats great I will set my alarm oops I cant, its electric doh

- Dave,Welling,Kent, welling, kent

IF yobs were involved,i hope they will get a thrashing.

- Ann Foley, wimbledon

Erm. I hate to point this out but nobody has a cast-iron guarantee of 100% provision of electricity. Such provision would be immensely costly, and before you know it, people would be back on here complaining about their electricity bills.

One or two days without power every 10 years (let's face it, it really is that kind of frequency) is really not the end of the world, and it's a price worth paying for cheaper electricity.

- Mark Lee, Vauxhall

Call me an old cynic, but am I the only one who is finding the suggestion of vandalism a little too convenient? From my understanding, EDF will have to offer compensation of at least £50 to each household affected for more than 18 hours - but ONLY if there's no criminal damage involved. 60,000 homes are still without power. That's a cool £3 MILLION in potential compensation (at least) that EDF won't have to pay, IF vandalism is the cause. It's a nice get out clause, wouldn't you say?

- Matthew, Dartford, UK

i will admit it being a pain but one of the things that did surprise me wasthe traffic seemed to flow better with out all the traffic lights working i got home a least five min's faster last night.

it was fun seeing a teenager panic as they could not watch telly or go on line.
they had to spend the night chatting and thinking of things to say?

- Russell, BEXLEYHEATH KENT

" How do you think people managed in this country BEFORE electricity?"

This is 2009 so why would we want to adapt to the dark ages?? Children need warmth, food and to be clean us adults can get on but the kids have routines and basic needs which are denied to them due to this.

There will be elderley dependant people in their homes worried and confused and therefore throw away comments by out of towners is tactless.

- Simon, Bexleyheath

About time the ordinary people suffered so that they can do something about stupid labour

- Ben Fernandes, harrow

Does no one in SE England keep a camping stove and a few day's supply of tinned and dry goods anymore? What will happen when folk are cooped up under the covers with the flu for a week? Come on folks - be prepared - and never put your trust in the corporate promises of your power monopoly - get your gas and lekkie from separate providers. It's worth the extra bob or two to save this hassle and inconvenience.

- Martin H, Hitchin

If Welling lost their electrics, would it make any difference?

- Matt Cornish, Aldershot, Air-Strip One

What a load of whingers! Having to leave home because there's no power. Honestly, your WW2 grandparents must be turning in their graves.

- Marianne, SW France/London

I have been involved in repairing cable fires in the past and let me assure you that the work is dirty,dangerous, and the working conditions can be atricious.That this problem can be cured by Thursday is probably some sort of miracle.

- Clyde, toronto ca.

How do you think people managed in this country BEFORE electricity? For goodness sake, make sure that in the future you get to Argos or some similar shop that sells camping gas stoves. For light, you could do no worse than buy 'wind-up' or battery powered lanterns (mine came from a mail order company), both much safer than having candles burning. Power cuts of any severity can happen at any time; be prepared!

- Judith, KIng's Lynn, Norfolk, UK

We had a great evening last night. No power meant no TV so we had to revert back to the age old art of conversation which made a pleasant change. We shared a BBQ and warm beer with our neighbours, and sat in the garden chatting all evening. I am fully aware that there are other, elderly or disabled, people that fully rely on their electricity supply and I have great sympathy for them, but for those of us who can do without, I say, stop moaning and make the best of it.

- Nikki, Bexleyheath, Kent

Well that explains why the council's website hasn't been working since yesterday. I was getting very annoyed with them but seems it's not down to them!

- Tony, Sidcup, SE London

I think we should all be extremely careful what we call this loss of power,is black out the correct term,it may be considered in some quarters as not PC?

- Colin, Bristol

ASDA at Greenhithe is open..well it was last night ! Unless their power has NOW gone...try to pop over if you can and get a bbq for just £ 2 !

- Alan, Dartford,UK

We must have been very lucky - there is a small part of Welling which only lost power for about an hour

- Julie, Welling

I agree there is a lot of moaning and whining about this but it is a right pain to deal with. Last night it was fun. This morning when I had to get up at 5.30 to walk dog and use my gym's amenities (which luckily had power), I was not so amused. It's easy to say go and get food and make a barbie but ALL our supermarkets were closed and if you don't have a car, you can't exactly hop around by public transport to see who is open. It's really frustrating, especially when one minute you're told the power will be on in 24 hours, another when it's 3 days. I can't even be British and have a cup of tea as we have an electric cooker and hob - doh!

- Jayne, Bexley, Greater London

The power network should never have one singlepoint of failure. This is bad management of the network and overpricing for profit not investment in infrastructure.

EDF have an appalling record in power stability,they seem to go from one outage to another in Kent and Sussex.

- Simon, Bexleyheath

EDF just restored power to Welling, at about 9 am, 21 July 2009.

I called EDF Energy yesterday to find out about the power failure (0800 783 8866 or 0800 028 0247). I agree it would be helpful to have a message broadcast to mobiles, phones powered by phone lines and battery and hand wound radio's or other devices and methods informing of what's happening during such instances.

I also agree that we should have some form of backup system - there must be ways to re-route power if certain segment/s of cables become damaged, or backup generators be in place if the generator itself has problems. Street lights backed up by solar power etc would provide safer driving conditions.

For any forms of compensation I was informed compensation would be rare if criminal damage is the cause of power failure. If the power was out for more than around 17 to 18 hours and no criminal damage is involved, then compensation would be possible. Best to contact EDF and council to find out with regard to this case, and to find a way to have this not happen again; in the least not for such a duration; importantly, what steps would be put in place in future by power suppliers; Government, and the Council to help everyone to cope more comfortably and safely, especially the elderly and the young and those with special needs during such instances.

I feel together we can make a change.

- Dominick, WELLING, Kent

Please be careful with candles. Place them on hard uninflammable surfaces away from where they could be knocked by people or animals. Do not leave lit candles unattended. For preference keep a large bucket full of water in the bathroom just in case. Fireman once told me that a combination of a single woman, candles, incense sticks and a cat is deadly

- Jack Spratt, Richmond, Surrey

I have had to go and stay at mums house in Bexley, they had a power cut, but just for a hour. now they have full power.. why on earth do us British not have back up plans for things liek this. what do we pay our taxes for? i know so MP's can spend it on 10k worth of compost... and second homes.... We really cant wait till thursday to have power... the youths should be csught and jailed!!!!!

- Lynsey Williams, Dartford, Kent

I wonder whether there will have a baby boom in 9 months time.

- Elaine, bexley kent

'if necessary buy a cheap bbq and some meat from Tesco' HOW - The supermarkets and shops are closed becuase they have no power.

- Mark, Kent

EDF just restored power to Welling, at about 9 am, 21 July 2009.

I called EDF Energy yesterday to find out about the power failure. I agree it would be helpful to have a message broadcast to mobiles, phones powered by phone lines and battery and hand wound radio's or other devices and methods informing of what's happening during such instances.

I also agree that we should have some form of backup system - there must be ways to re-route power if certain segment/s of cables become damaged, or backup generators be in place if the generator itself has problems. As an idea, street lights backed up by solar power may work.

For any forms of compensation I was informed compensation would be rare if criminal damage is the cause of power failure. If the power was out for more than around 17 to 18 hours and no criminal damage is involved, then compensation would be possible. Best to contact EDF and council to find out with regard to this case, and to find a way to have this not happen again; in the least not for such a duration; importantly, what steps would be put in place in future by power suppliers; Government, and the Council to help everyone to cope more comfortably and safely, especially the elderly and the young and those with special needs during such instances.

I feel together we can make a change.

- Dominick, WELLING, Kent

Although EDF are rubbish at keeping us updated we can't blame them for what is happening. Its the vandals that caused the problem. I do wish people would stop moaning, yes its an inconvience but just get on with it. The only comment I agree with is Russell's of Bexleyheath and how do we keep our fish alive. If ours die I shall be posting them to EDF and asking them to pass them onto the vandals when they are found!

- Kate, Dartford

Centralised power generation and distribution is far, far cheaper than localised generation - that's why it's done. But the potential for major outages is the price that's paid for this. If/when households supply more of their energy from local renewable sources, this will be less of an issue - shed the heating loads, at least you would be able to run lights, the internet router and a laptop !! But make no mistake, your energy will cost you more.

- Mike, Dartford

There is no electricity and that means we obviously cannot be contacted for updates on the electricity!! Do you suppose that the electric board knock on every single door in the areas effected? Or find everyones mobile numbers and contact that way?
Everyone needs to stop moaning, things like this happen from time to time and there is nothing we or the electric board can do about it!

- Alex, Welling, Kent

Michael - gee, if all the stores are closed it's kind of hard to buy a BBQ or food and "cope". I don't have a car or family and have no alternatives. Only because I'm at work (in London) do I have access to info. Point about the plan is that they (EDF/council) are quick to come out and say they are dealing when in fact the worst affected are not even getting basic information given to them about when power will be restored. Every time I call EDF it's a different story. Those who are cynical clearly have power at home. I will be without power for at least 3 days, if not more. Basic needs are hard to meet without the ability to store or buy food and cook!

- S Hipperson, Dartford, UK

The power cut is very unfortunate. I feel for all of you, in a way.

Just one point (and I am being a bore)....all of you in Welling, Sidcup, Bexleyheath and Orpington.....you are NOT in Kent, but Greater London and have been for at least 40 years. So it's "Sidcup, Greater London" for example.

Just thought I'd clear that point. And Middlesex was absorbed into Greater London ages ago too. Class dismissed.

- Rod, Epping, ESSEX, UK

Its ok say lets not moan, but when you have small children, a mother with dementia and work at 7am, a power cut on a monday evening doesnt seem so thrilling. EDF should of had some sort of emergency plan, it almost feel like negligence on their half.

- Rebecca, Bexlyheath

The power cut brought on the lolz, me and my dog stalked the night!

- Maxxy, Welling

We have suffered from power cuts that have lasted for over 24 hours once a year for the last 3 years. People should be aware they can claim conpensation of 50 pounds if they have a power cut of 18 hours or more

- Paul, Fairseat

since Northern Rock repossessed my house, I live in a tent so the electricity supply issue isn't really a problem - Internet for £1 an hour at the local cafe. The midgies are a bit annoying though.

- Andrew, Lothians

Yes this is very frustrating, but surely comments about washing are a bit extreme?! I know its a bit chilly but there is still water coming out of the taps you know, and a bit of candle light never hurt anyone...oh, and theres always bread and other forms of food available other than the ready meal in the fridge! It won't last forever!

- Anan, bexleyheath, kent

Come on people, use your initiative, get some candles burning, use the bbq, and bring back the art of conversation!! Lovely, my husband and i had a lovely evening with candles, cold meat and salad and card and board games and chatted, with wine too!! I also have a 7 week old baby and just went back to the old fashioned way of sterilising bottles etc, it's no bother. Just make the best of a bad situation.

- Diana, Bexleyheath, Kent

Although the power going out is anoying, my first concern is for the sick and elderly. My neighbours both sides are diabetic where eating and drinking on time is imperative. Another neighbour has ended up in hospital. All those moaners out there, stop moaning and help your needy neighbours. If you have a gas hob, get a match to light it and boil water and cook something for your neighbours who really need help, and stop thinking of yourselves. Go to bed early in the dark and get up extra early in the light.

- Andrea, Dartford, Kent

Parts of Notting Hill were blacked out earlier this year because Travellers were stealing cabling. This sounds like a repeat incident.

- Michael, Kensington London

Loads of dark scary roads here, we use our car headlights. I can imagine that the pampared people will not be able to cope and will look to sue someone, anyone - get a grip!

- Andy, Suffolk

I wished they had back up for ths black out. i know there are lots of people worse off but i have a marine fish tank with a reef which has cost me £1000,s and along time to biuld up. it could all be wiped out with this loss of power.
Who will pay for all the losses as they seem to think £50 will cover all the food we put in the frezzer for the six week hols .

- Russell, BEXLEYHEATH KENT

Victoria, most homes in the UK need electricity to power the water heating pump, and some also have electric water heaters. Sure you can wash in cold water but it is 21 degrees and raining in London today.
Given the huge sums EDF charge their punters for supply, I think customers who are without power for much of this week, and facing throwing out the slushy contents of their freezers, are entitled to feel dismayed at EDF's slow response and apparent corner-cutting.
The power cuts also affected lighting in stations, giving SE Trains the perfect excuse to shift the blame for delays and disruption yesterday evening.

- Kitty, Sidcup, Kent

What happens to people who store food in freezers and frigdes, theres going to be loads of money wasted for these day....Well i guess the 3 hour power restore will do a bit

- Skyman Daps, welling, kent

"We have children and no way to cook and no one from EDF or the council has any sort of plan" .. is it not possible that you could use some initiative and deal with the problem YOURSELF..we are talking about a break in power of two days ..hardly the end of the world.... if necessary buy a cheap bbq and some meat from Tesco!!or have a picnic!.. see it as an adventure ..it could have been worse.. at least its July and not November!..

- Michael, London

Like everyone else, we shall cope and just get on with it - albeit very frustrating!
I just hope the people responsible are caught, and appropriate punishment is served, no matter how young they or many not be (suggestions are this was caused by kids). Although I doubt very much the punishment will be more than a telling off!.

- Marc, Welling, Kent

Shelley, how do you expect them to update people if they cannot listen to the radio or watch TV or, unlike you, go online? I think power cuts are great, now and again. They test your initiative (BBQs to heat water etc) and give you an excuse to go back to bed. Or walk to somewhere where there isn't a power cut.

Let's not make the first reaction always to complain or seek retribution/compensation.

- Kevin, New malden

The roads were black? Have you never lived in/been to the countryside? There are miles and miles of roads in teh country with no streetlighting and it's fairly safe – cars have headlights for a reason, no?

Sure, the power cut was really annoyying, but jeez, come on people, life goes on. People have to deal with much worse than this on a day to day basis.

I must say, though, I am surprised such an important cable is so vulnerable, running near a busy town and overground at that. Why is something so potentially dangerous so open? Is there not an strong argument for a 'back up', underground supply?

- Chris, Crayford, Kent

I have a question. Comments were made about washing. Do these power cables control the water supply too?

- Victoria, California USA

DA1 and DA8 postcodes will be without power until at least Wed or Thurs EDF is now saying, others may or may not be restored with "rolling power" (on for a few hours and then off again). It is absolutely ridiculous in this day and age that there is no back-up in place or way to re-route power to deal with such an issue - is this 1940? Shocking. We have children and no way to cook and no one from EDF or the council has any sort of plan - the reports from their spokespeople are rubbish. They are not looking after the vulnerable.

- S Hipperson, Dartford, UK

Although annoying, I thought it was great! For a change my family had no phone, laptop, TV to run off to and we spent a lovely evening together.


- Suzy, Crayford

I've just got my power back but apparently only for 3 hours! I totally agree with Arnold the cheapest option always muck things up!

- Andrew Stock, Bexleyheath, Kent

What is amazing is that all four main cables ran along side each other. Surely, to avoid such widespread problems, the cables should take four separate routes or be separated by a sufficient distance.

The cheap option always leads to problems.

- Arnold Tarling, Eltham SE London

That power cut was so annoying! I was without power for a day! I hope the engineers get the energy back up for other areas soon!

- Lucy, Bexley, UK

I think its awful that in this century, it can take so long to fix the power problem!!!!
Why aren't we even being kept updated with what's going on?
Its ridiculous

- Shelley, welling,kent

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