WIRRAL householders were left without electricity when an underground cable failed last night.

Around 20 homes lost power following the fault in Dinmore Road and Devonshire Road in Wallasey at around 10.30pm.

One resident living in the area said she heard a “big electrical crackle” and a loud bang before the power went off.

Firefighters were called to the scene after reports of smoke coming from a pavement, but Merseyside Fire and Rescue said no action was needed on arrival.

A spokesman for Scottish Power said: “Our engineers worked through the night to get power back on in the area. By 4am all work was completed.

“We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused.”