Events disrupted as high winds hit south coast

Festivals and shows have been affected by high winds across coastal areas of East and West Sussex, as well as parts of Kent.

A Met Office yellow warning of strong winds was in force from 09:00 to 19:00 BST on Saturday. A fallen tree brought down power cables on the A272 between North Chailey and Piltdown in East Sussex.

Bus services were affected by fallen trees and organisers of dances, festivals and the South of England Show had to cancel some events.

A Met Office spokesperson said: "Some disruption to weekend activities and events is possible, alongside a risk of power outages and some low level travel disruption."

Gusts of 45-50mph (72-80km/h) were likely along coasts, possibly reaching 55mph in a few exposed spots, they added.

The weather warning covered the whole of the East and West Sussex coastal areas and touched as far as Lydd in Kent.

Heavy rain was also forecast for many areas across the South East.

The warning came days after the region recorded its hottest May temperatures, reaching up to 35C (95F) in some places.

Earlier, the South of England Agricultural Society posted on Facebook: "Sadly, due to the adverse weather conditions the decision has been made to cancel the rest of today's programme in the main ring for the safety of the animals, competitors, visitors, exhibitors and stewards."

But it added: "The good news is that weather forecast for Sunday is looking good."

Stagecoach South East warned of bus diversions because of fallen trees in Dymchurch, Kent, and Guestling Green, in East Sussex.

In West Sussex, a festival due to take place on Saturday was moved to 27 June because of the weather.

Worthing council posted on social media: "Unfortunately, the rain and strong wind forecast for tomorrow means that Durrington Festival has been postponed.... fingers crossed for sunshine later this month."

A barn dance at Mac's Farm in Ditchling, East Sussex, was also cancelled.

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