FORECASTERS have sent out warnings over strong winds set to buffet much of England and Wales today (Saturday).

The Met Office has issued a yellow alert and there are fears that gusts could reach speeds close to 40mph.

Experts have warned that the wind could cause disruption to transport, especially road and rail services. Some journeys are expected to take longer and drivers of high-sided vehicles have been warned to take care.

Additionally, the wind could cause power outages, building on problems caused during a mass power cut yesterday.

Further north there are warnings of thunderstorms set to impact the far north west of England, the east of Northern Ireland and much of Scotland.

This could cause additional transport disruption and brings the threat of flash flooding and road closures.

Bolton is set to be hit by rain throughout the day, with forecasters predicting a 90 percent chance of downpours from noon to 3pm and then again around 8pm.