SOUTHERN Electric Power Distribution (SEPD) embarked on the biggest tree-cutting scheme ever undertaken in its history costing a total of £350,000.

In order to drastically reduce power cuts in the Milland, Redford and Linch area and protect vulnerable residents, more than 150 tree cutters, engineers, specialist contractors and linesmen worked on clearing an area of 200,000 square meters in one day.

To minimise the risk of further power cuts, engineers have also installed new technology that will act as sensors to debris falling on the lines and reconnect power supplies without having to call out an SSE engineer.

The work across the entire area was carried out on Tuesday, when power supplies were switched off between 8am and 6pm.

Customers on SSE’s priority register had been visited to ensure they knew about the work in advance.

Ben Burston, landlord of The Rising Sun, recalls regular power cuts each year which have left the pub unable to open and serve food or drinks - sometimes over several days during severe weather conditions.

Izzy Fraser, one of the managers of Milland’s Community store was also delighted the works have been carried out, especially since the shop is the only one in the area serving a large rural community.