Northern Gas Networks (NGN) and Bradford Council have thanked the people of Silsden for their resilience and community spirit during the recent loss of gas supply to their town.
The gas supply to over 3,500 properties in Silsden was cut off on the morning of Friday 30 March, when a third-party building contractor damaged a gas main in the area.
The council says a massive operation then ensued, led by the North of England’s gas distribution network, Northern Gas Networks, to keep the community safe and warm, and to get everyone connected back up to the gas network as quickly as possible. Around 8,000 customers were affected.
Bradford Council strategic director Michael Jameson was leading the council’s support during the incident. He said: “The community spirit we have witnessed in Silsden during the loss of gas supply has been absolutely amazing.
“Despite the significant inconvenience to their daily lives, people have rallied round, looked out for their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, and kept cheerful and supportive of the operation. Thank you to all of Silsden for your optimism and patience.
“Local businesses and organisations, and of course St James Church and Silsden Sports Club, have been fantastic, providing local people with amenities, comfort, food and support. The presence of the British Red Cross has also been invaluable. At a time when temperatures reached below freezing, it was extremely reassuring to have this additional support for residents’ wellbeing, which included care for vulnerable people in their own homes.