ALMOST 500 homes have been left without power after a fault with an electricity cable in Leigh.

UK Power Network say there has been an unexpected power cut across Leigh including parts of Blenheim Chase, Manchester Drive, Eastwood Road, Elmsleigh Drive, and Highlands Boulevard.

At this stage, bosses estimate power will be back on by 12:30pm to 1:30pm.

Within the area affected, is also a number of schools including Belfairs Academy, Darlinghurst Academy, and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School. At this stage, it is unknown how impacted these schools are at this stage.

A spokesman for UK Power Network said: “We are sorry for any disruption this may have caused you.

“As this was an unexpected power cut, we didn't know it was going to happen, so we were unable to give you advanced notice.”

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.