Beauty spot hit by flash floods

Motorists have been urged to avoid the Windermere area of the Lake District after heavy rain caused flooding.

Forecasters warned that Cumbria would be badly hit by gale force winds and torrential rain throughout Thursday.

Police said the A592 had been closed between Cook's House Corner and the summit of Kirkstone Pass.

Other parts were also affected, including Rayrigg Road. A force spokeswoman urged drivers to use alternative routes.