The problem, which emerged on Friday afternoon after a problem with the host's server, lasted for approximately four hours, meant users could not look up information about specific charities, make filings with the authority or access its website.

Several users took to Twitter to enquire about the problems, and we told the Commission was experiencing ‘server issues’.

In a statement released once functionality had been restored, the Charity Commission said: ‘Yesterday (Friday 25 August) one of our suppliers experienced technical issues that affected access to our online services.

‘Today (Saturday 26 August) the issue has been fixed and normal service has resumed. You will now be able to access all online services, including charity annual return.’

The Commission is in the process of collecting charities' annual returns for 2016 and 2017. For charities with incomes over £10,000, income is more than £10,000, an annual return must be completed within 10 months of the financial reporting period ending. All Charitable incorporated organisations must complete an annual return regardless of their income. 

The Charity Commission has been contacted for further comment.

The Charity Commission can be accessed here.