Flood warnings after heavy rain

The north-east of England has been hit hard by torrential rain, which has meant dangerous conditions for drivers and caused localised flooding.

The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings for the River South Tyne around Haltwhistle, Haydon Bridge, Barden Mill and Slaggyford.

Northumbria Police reported localised flooding in Killingworth, North Tyneside and Morpeth in Northumberland

In Durham, the city's Gala Theatre was also hit by flooding.

The weather caused problems for motorists, who were further hampered by areas of thick fog along the coasts of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and County Durham.

Flooded roads

A Met Office spokesman said there had been "prolonged and torrential rainfall" in eastern England.

Police said the A69 was completely blocked in both directions in the Low Row area on the Northumberland/Cumbria border, after water from fields flooded the road.

Pc Ian Williamson of Northumbria Police said: "We would ask drivers to leave for time for their journeys and to use their lights because of patchy fog in the region."

Heavy rain and thunder is forecast for the rest of the day.