Newcastle floods lead to road closures and Metro delays

Torrential downpours have again caused travel disruption around Tyneside.

Newcastle's Central Motorway was closed in both directions for a short time and Metro services were suspended between Regent Centre and Airport.

The Met Office had predicted "intense showers" could lead to localised flooding.

The deluge came after two men were rescued from their car by firefighters in Newcastle after torrential rain caused flash flooding, on Sunday.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service's Swift Water Rescue Team helped the pair, who were trapped on the Central Motorway.

The showers flooded some stations on the Tyne and Wear Metro, but all have now been re-opened.

However, Northumbria Police said the Swing Bridge over the River Tyne would be closed until further notice after it was covered by debris.

Newcastle railway station was also hit, with walkways cordoned off to allow a clean-up to take place.

Newcastle City Council said some leisure centres had been affected by floodwater.