HOMES in a Suffolk market town should start to get their gas supply switched on later today.

Around 1,200 homes have been left without heat in Framlingham after contractors working on some drainage accidentally damaged a pressure pipe.

The accident happened at 2.30pm yesterday and last night it was feared it could be three days before the supply is reconnected.

An emergency centre has been set up at the Sir Robert Hitcham’s Primary School and residents were picking up heaters and fans from there this morning.

A spokeswoman for National Grid said engineers had been working throughout the night.

She said door to door visits were now taking place - with special priority given to vulnerable customers.

She said it was hoped that gas supplies would start to be switched on again some time this afternoon.

Eileen Coe, Framlingham town clerk, said residents were helping each other through the emergency.

“Everyone is joining together and helping each other out,” she said. “We look after our own in Framlingham.”

The emergency supplies of electric heaters and hot plates were brought in via lorry from Birmingham and arrived at about 10pm.

Classes at the primary school were cancelled today as the centre was used as an information point.

This is not the first time residents have faced a cold night without heat, in January, 2007, gas supplies to about 900 homes in Framlingham were cut off when a safety device was automatically activated.

Stephanie Bennell, chairman of Framlingham Town Council, said families were dealing with the situation well.

“We have had a dress rehearsal for this already,” she said. “We are taking it all in our stride.”

Homeowners can telephone the National Grid on 0845 605 6677 for information or visit the town website at www.framlingham.com.