BT Switch-Off in Hatherton

Over five weeks ago, residents in Hatherton, two miles north of Audlem, lost their BT landline and internet connections. Getting the problem solved has been hampered by the fact that mobile phone connectivity is very poor in this area.

Mrs Jean Stainthorpe, a Hatherton resident and Parish Councillor explained: "Many Hatherton residents have been without their 'voices' and internet connections since 11th December when, we have were told, the phone cable was damaged during the installation of fibre-optic cables for the superfast broadband project to Audlem.

"BT Openreach will not speak with individual customers and so we have all had to report the same problem via our individual Internet Service Providers. Despite all the calls and promised dates for repair and reconnection, nothing has happened".

Neighbour Carrie de Silva explained: "We understand that problems occur but the length of time we have waited is unacceptable.

"What has really upset residents is the failure of BT to provide full and accurate information and the multiple changes of dates when repairs are supposed to have been completed. In the meantime we have had to visit friends to use their phones and computers, or try and catch up at work.

"My daughter is an A-level student and the lack of access to on-line facilities is really worrying her."

Janet Clowes, the Councillor for Wybunbury Ward of which Hatherton is part, commented: "I hadn't realised this was an on-going problem until Carrie asked to see me.

"Once she explained the issues I was pleased to let Carrie and Jean use my internet service and phone to contact BT and their internet providers.

"This is a wholly unacceptable situation as reliable telephone services in rural areas are vital. We know that those affected may be elderly, may work from home or are studying. We are all dependent on land-line phones because mobile connections are so poor in this area.

"I have contacted Edward Timpson MP and our Connecting Cheshire Team to liaise with BT to get Hatherton reconnected as a matter of urgency."

The photo shows Mrs Jean Stainthorpe (seated) and Ms Carrie de Silva (standing) using the computer and phones at Cllr Janet Clowes' home.

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