AN unpleasant smell and a number of power outages have left residents in Aveley mystified this afternoon.

Residents took to social media to report a nasty odour had drifted across the area and in neighbouring Rainham concerns were also raised.

Emergency services and the power authorities have been asked if they have any information for residents.

UK Power Networks said: "

Power was interrupted to 157 customers in the Rainham area on Monday because of fault with an underground cable.

"The powercut occurred at 16.46 and engineers worked quickly and safely to reconnect customers in stages with the final customers restored at 18.11.

"We appreciate how difficult it is be without electricity and apologise for the inconvenience caused."

They have discounted a link to the smell.

And the emergency services are not aware of any problems.