HIGH winds are affecting transport around the North-East and North Yorkshire this morning.

The Highways Agency has again advised motorists to be cautious as the gales are expected to continue for much of today.

The A66 from Scotch Corner to the M6, at Penrith, is a particular risk for high-sided vehicles, motorbikes and caravans.

Drivers are urged to check traffic and weather conditions before setting out on journeys and to heed any advice such as speed restrictions.

On the rail network there are a number of delays and cancellations on the East Coast Main Line – passengers are advised only to travel unless it is absolutely necessary.

Train operator East Coast is running at a reduced speed until at least 2pm, which is expected to add at least one hour to journeys.

Planned engineering works through Peterborough are also adding to the delays.

A spokesman for East Coast said: “Ticket restrictions have been lifted so passengers can travel at any time. Passengers may also travel tomorrow, but services are expected to be busy.”

As yet there are no major problems with flooding in the region.