Thanks - I was thinking of using it outside in a sheltered spot, not indoors. Better than nothing! Yes our hob is electric, I wish it wasnt.
We're thinking also of getting a calor gas heater, I hate them but they're fairly safe and should do in the short term.

More on this as EDF phoned just now to say that they have only provided a temporary solution to the problem and that further outtages will be likely. They think they have isolated the problem and reduced the number of houses affected. Investigations are onging. They are coming back to me to set up an urgent meeting with some of us who have been affected and to discuss arrangements for the next time especially if the weather turns really cold.

So far there are 15 of us, if the other 100 or so are out there, please get in touch. This problem has been ongoing since August 07 and there is still no end in sight.

Jim Dowds office has been made aware.