SOUTHAMPTON has been hit by a massive power cut this morning affecting at least 1000 properties.

Even the city's busy magistrates were forced shut as electricity went off from about 8.20am this morning.

Areas affected include Banister Park, Bargate, Bedford Place, the Polygon and the inner city centre.

Scottish and Southern Energy spokeswoman Sam O'Connor said about half those affected have had their power back on, with the rest to be restored later this morning.

She said: "At the moment we are not sure what is causing it. Engineers are concentrating on trying to get the power back and will investigate later on.

"We apologise for any inconvenience."