Power cuts were caused by 'arson attack' at electricity substation in Galliagh

A fire at an electricity substation in Londonderry which caused power cuts for up to 3,000 people is believed to have been started deliberately.

The blaze was reported at about 18:45 BST at the substation on the Ferndale Road in the Galliagh area of Derry.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said youths had stored bonfire material close to the substation and this had been set on fire.

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) said 300 homes are still without power.

An NIE spokesman said the company's engineers would continue to work throughout the night but it could be Saturday afternoon before the electricity supply is fully restored to all those affected.

He added that the substation appeared to be extensively damaged and explained that firefighters had to make the site safe before NIE engineers could carry out their repairs.

Speaking from the scene of the fire, SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan said several homes had been evacuated while firefighters tackled a "huge blaze".

"Not only have the mindless actions of a few youths caused great inconvenience to residents here, but they have also caused genuine upset and anxiety.

"It is extremely fortunate that the consequences of this vandalism have not been even more serious causing injury or significant damage to neighbouring homes," Mr Durkan said.