Strong wind warning as Storm Bert approaches

The Met Office said gusts could reach 70mph (112km/h) in coastal areas

Parts of Devon and Cornwall are expected to be hit by strong winds and rain as Storm Bert approaches.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, which comes into force at 06:00 GMT on Saturday and is expected to remain active until 23:45.

A yellow warning for wind, which comes into force at 15:00 on the same day, remains in place until 21:00.

The Met Office said gusts could reach 70mph (112km/h) in coastal areas and there was a small chance of a "danger to life".

'Vicious beast'

Councillor Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council cabinet member for emergency management, warned storm watchers to stay safe on the coast.

"One of our perennial fears when we have a big storm is that people will go and see what is often something quite spectacular down at the coast, but put themselves in danger," he said.

"The sea is a vicious beast and it shows no mercy. If you get too close it's very easy to get swept away."

He said people should also tie down loose garden furniture such as trampolines which can be blown about in strong winds.

"We don't want to see things flying and and causing damage and harm to others," he said.

Power cuts possible

The Met Office said: "There is a small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties."

It said power cuts, flooding and damage to properties was possible.

Devon and Cornwall Police also warned of travel disruption ahead of the storm.

Newton Abbot Town Council said it was cancelling its Christmas light switch-on due to the forecast.

It said on Facebook the lights would be switched on automatically on Saturday evening.

Named by Ireland's Met Éireann, Storm Bert is the second named storm of the season.

Surface water concerns

National Highways said it was expecting challenging driving conditions in the region.

Dale Hipkiss, national network manager, said: "The weather front in the South West appears to be wind and rain.

"We're looking at surface water that may have formed after the recent snow and the additional downpour of rain we are about to see.

"That includes the A30, near Okehampton and Bodmin.

"So we're expecting difficult driving conditions and that is why we're keen for people to drive safely, take key items with them and plan well in advance."

An attraction near Mevagissey also announced it will close on Saturday.

Heligan Night Garden said it was closing for safety reasons.

"We have many alternative nights for our visitors to enjoy this incredible event and hope to welcome you to an alternative date instead," it said.