POWER cuts have hit homes in Devon as Storm Eunice continues to batter the district, Western Power Distribution reports.

At 8.30am the company reported: ‘We are now beginning to see the first signs of Storm Eunice in our region.’

By 10.30am there were reports of power cuts in several parts of Teignmbridge.

The company reports: Storm Eunice is now making her presence felt in our South West and South Wales regions.'

There are reports of power failures for some in Newton Abbot and the power company is hoping these will be resolved by 4pm.

Some homes in the Dawlish area have lost their power and the best reports suggest these could be fixed by noon.

Haytor and homes in the Ashburton area are also experiencing problems and it is hoped these could be resolved by 1pm.

There are some power supply problems in Exminster and Moretonhampstead.

SPORT DISRUPTION

STORM Eunice looks set to play havoc with the weekend’s sporting schedule as high winds and rain batter the region.

The South West Peninsula League, which sits at Step Six on the non-league ladder, is letting clubs call games off without the need for a pitch inspection.

A league spokesman said: ‘All clubs have been emailed to advise that the Severe Weather Protocol has been invoked for this weekend.

‘Host clubs can now postpone games without inspection, but must contact league, match officials and opponents.’

Reasons cited for the decision include the various severe weather warnings, potential damage to facilities and restrictions on travel.

Bovey Tracey’s trip to Elburton Villa, which was due to take place tonight, has already been postponed at the request of the Plymouth club.

RECYCLING CENTRES

Recycling centres across Devon are closed today due to the weather. A Devon County Council spokesman said: ’Due to the amber/red warnings for #StormEunice, all Household Waste Recycling Centres across Devon will be CLOSED on Friday 18 Feb (due to the significant risk of flying debris at sites). We apologise for any inconvenience caused.’

EXTRA STAFF

Extra staff have been drafted into Devon County Council’s Network Operations Control Centre and extra highways teams will be ready to respond as Teignbridge faces Storm Eunice today.

Teams of tree-surgeons will also be on standby.

WEATHER WARNINGS

Two weather alerts are in place. The ‘danger to life’ Red Warning issued by the Met office covers from 7am to midday today and the Amber Warning from 5pm to 9pm.

Drivers have been urged to only travel if absolutely necessary, please tell us if you notice anything that others need to be warned about but please stay safe yourself.

We aim to keep you updated as the storm strikes.