UNITED Utilities this week announced those worst affected by the power cuts were eligible for compensation.

l Domestic customers left without power for more than 48 consecutive hours can claim £25 against the company's guaranteed standards of service under a scheme agreed with industry regulator Ofgem.

l A further £25 is payable to customers for every subsequent 12 hours without power up to a maximum of £200.

l But claims must be submitted within one month of householders' electricity being restored.

l Business customers are also asked to submit their claims for compensation to United Utilities within one month.

l The company will not provide compensation for any damage to appliances, freezer contents or any other loss incurred as a result of the severe weather. These must be claimed against household insurance.

Eoin Cooke, who is responsible for the company's electricity network, said: "United Utilities is very concerned that some customers experienced difficulties with their electricity supply.

"We have had more than 400 engineers working to restore supplies as quickly as possible, often in appalling conditions, and I would like to thank our customers for their continued patience."

Customers are asked to submit their claims to The Customer Service Manager, United Utilities, Hartington Road, Preston, PR1 8LE. Claims should quote the reference DGES/CSC.