DOZENS of homes and businesses spent the weekend without telephones and internet access after the theft of more than 400 metres of underground cable.

The cable was cut in Great Broughton, near Stokesley, North Yorkshire, in the early hours of Friday.

BT said it knew of more than 140 faults, although it is understood more homes may have been affected.

About 40 of the affected homes had their services restored by yesterday afternoon, with the rest expected to follow by late last night.

A BT spokesman said: “Engineers have worked throughout the weekend to replace the cable and are gradually restoring service to affected customers.

“We would like to apologise to customers for any inconvenience.”

One local resident said: “This has caused quite considerable inconvenience for people, particularly those who need access to the internet or phones for their businesses.

“No one has contacted us to keep us informed of what has been happening – everyone has been left to fend for themselves.”

Police are investigating the theft, which happened near Creyke Nest Farm.

Anyone with information has been asked to call 0845-60-60-24-7.