Broadband engineers are on a mission to get hundreds of people across Essex without Sky broadband and telephone services back online. UPDATE Sky claims the problem of over-running planned network maintenance has been resolved.
A statement on its website, posted at 4.30pm, reads: "We're aware that customers in Essex (including: Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford, Leigh on Sea, Maldon and Southend) were experiencing a loss of their Sky Broadband and Sky Talk services today.
"We're pleased to confirm the issue has been resolved.
"We're very sorry for any inconvenience caused."
Users are thought to have been disconnected since last night, with homes and businesses facing a communications blackout today.
An earlier statement on Sky Help & Support Latest News read: "Over-running of essential planned network maintenance is causing a loss of broadband and talk services in Essex (including: Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford, Leigh-on-Sea, Maldon and Southend).
"Our engineers have been on-site since early this morning, carrying out investigation work.
"They've recently confirmed that the problem has been isolated and are working hard to resolve the issue.
"We're sorry for any inconvenience caused."
Problems have reportedly affected customers in East Anglia, south-east England and northern Scotland, although services have resumed in Scotland.
Those affected have taken to using 3G and Twitter, writing of their frustrations.
Greg Hounsom wrote at about 1pm: "Broadband and telephone still down in Chelmsford… sort it out Sky! Good job it's a nice day to be outside!"
Edward Mangion wrote: "No internet in Chelmsford area too! Be nice to get it back up soon as it's making studying a pain! #sky #NoInternet Guess I'll grab a beer
