Hundreds of pounds worth of damage has been caused to homes which were struck by lightning.

Up to four houses in Gilda Terrace, off Rayne Road, Braintree, are believed to have been affected by the lightning strike, “blowing” television sets, broadband connections, SKY boxes and phones.

She said: "We were watching the Olympics then there was a massive bang.

“The broadband connection flew out of the wall and is all burnt."

Neighbour Mike Ashcroft's home was also hit. He said: "The TV, SKY box, phone and the internet have stopped working, I’d only just finished paying for the £700 television."

See this week's Braintree and Witham Times for the full story.