THERE has been praise for Wales and West Utilities for its actions in re-connecting the gas supply to more than 400 homes in the Copplestone area after the supply was lost on Wednesday, June 12.

Councillor Stuart Penny, Copplestone Parish Council chairman and Mid Devon District Councillor for the area, praised the efforts of the gas company for the swiftness and efficiency of the company’s engineers on the ground and from the company as a whole.

He told the "Courier" today, Thursday, June 13: "It has been interesting to see so many Wales and West Utilities vehicles in the village, but I have had confirmation that the supply of gas is now flowing again and teams of engineers are now visiting each home again to safely turn homeowners gas back on and relight their gas appliances where necessary.

"Wales and West Utilities particularly looked after the vulnerable and made hot plates available as well as heaters to those who needed them.

"The company has provided an excellent service above and what could be expected."

It is believed that the gas supply was interrupted just outside of Crediton and the area affected stretched from there through Copplestone to Allerbridge at Coldridge.

Wales and West Utilities said it was "very sorry" and was working to get the gas flowing again in Copplestone and the surrounding villages.

It added it was a "complex job" to reconnect the service but that this was completed at about noon on Thursday.

It said it was important that customers wait for engineers to visit, asking people to not try to turn the gas back on themselves.

It said all team members were carrying identification and would be happy to show callers if asked.

Clive Book, Wales and West Utilities Head of Emergency Service said: “We’re very sorry that the gas supply to homes and businesses in Copplestone and surrounding villages has been interrupted.

“Our team have worked round the clock to resolve the issue and this afternoon (Thursday) we will be visiting each affected home to safely turn their gas back on and relight their gas appliances. All our engineers will be carrying identification.

“If residents are away, we will leave information on how to contact us so we can turn their gas back on and relight their gas appliances safely.

“If anyone has any questions our Customer Service Team is ready to take their call. They can contact us on 0800 912 2999 or by emailing: [email protected] . Alternatively, they can contact us on Twitter @WWUtilities or Facebook.com/wwutilities.

“We really appreciate the patience and support of the local people in Copplestone as we worked to get the gas flowing again to homes in the area.”