RESIDENTS in Bridgwater have been left fuming after a damaged cable has left them without reliable internet for the past two weeks.

The issue has affected houses on Taunton Road, Kendale Road, and Chilton Street and repairs may not be completed until April 20, according to engineers.

An Openreach spokesperson said the problem is “affecting approximately 100 homes and businesses”.

One resident, Elaine Bridges-Goodenough, who lives on St Saviour’s Avenue, said that since March 29 she has not been able to use her broadband.

She said: “On March 19 they started digging on my street. I have been in contact with Sky every single day but they are saying it is an Openreach issue.

“There are so many people with this problem. I am paying for a service I don’t have.

“It has a huge impact. I am paying for Netflix and Amazon and limited television is all we got. It’s shocking how much it impacts your life.”

An Openreach spokesperson said that “the repair work is complicated,” adding that the issue should be fixed by April 20.

Mrs Bridges-Goodenough also added: “A few people were affected by the sound of it. They get intermittent internet, but mine is completely gone since March 29, it’s just ridiculous.”

The full statement from Openreach read: “Our network in Bridgwater has been damaged by a third party and approximately 100 homes and businesses have lost their broadband as a result. 

"The repair work is complicated but our engineers have been working over the Easter weekend on a solution and hope that it will be completed by Wednesday 20 April.   

"We know how frustrating it is to be without connectivity but we’re doing everything we can to get everyone back online, and are keeping broadband providers up-to-date on our progress. 

"We’d like to remind everyone that if you have a problem with your phone or broadband, it’s essential to report any loss of service to your provider who will then contact us.”