Shops can only take cash, landline phones are down and people and businesses have been left with no way to communicate with the outside world.

Mobile connection returned for many on Wednesday afternoon, but the wider issue remains ongoing.

One gift shop in Biggar, Arbory Rose, wrote on Facebook that an internet provider told them the problem could persist until the weekend. 

Some people used Facebook to update concerned loved ones on the issue. One man wrote: “Checking in, for family; Biggar currently has no phone signal or internet. We are both okay.”

Police Scotland make statement

The Police Scotland Lothians and Scottish Borders Facebook page issued a statement advising residents of problems to telephone lines.

Officers advised that work was being carried out to resolve the issue.

In the case of an emergency, residents are advised to firstly try calling 999 through their phones.

Failing that, police urge people to travel to the nearest police station, hospital or ambulance station.

A post from Police Scotland read: “We are aware of issues affecting telephone and mobile services in the Biggar, Broughton and Skirling areas.

“This issue is aimed to be resolved as quickly as possible.”