A power cut has paralysed shops and businesses in Watford town centre.

HSBC, Gamestation and 99p Stores have been affected by the problem, which struck at about 1.30pm this afternoon.

EDF representative Jessica Gallagher said: “EDF Energy Networks engineers are currently working as quickly as is safely possible to restore power to some customers in High Street, Watford following a fault on a low voltage underground cable.

“Power was interrupted at about 1.30pm today and four customers have reported being affected by the fault.

“We realise how difficult it is to be without power and apologise for any inconvenience.”