Earlier this week, hundreds of homes in Rutland lost their internet connection due to thieves attempting to steal valuable copper wires. 

The worst affected areas were North and South Luffenham, Normanton and Eidith Weston. 

According to Openreach: "We're deeply disappointed that this community is suffering the consequences of a criminal act targeting our networks. 

"Two underground cables more than one kilometre long were deliberately damaged and need to be replaced. 

"These attacks cause extensive disruption to local lives, threaten the safety of vulnerable individuals, and result in significant inconvenience for residents and businesses."