A fair that has been taking place in the North East for the past three decades has been cancelled in the wake of extreme weather caused by Storm Babet.

Yarm Fair, which was due to take place in the town from October 19 to 21, has been cancelled in a "public safety" effort due to the fluctuating weather.

Storm Babet first hit the North East on Wednesday, and has since led the Met Office to issue yellow and amber rain warnings for the region as rain and heavy winds are expected to last until Saturday.

Read more: Storm Babet: Amber weather warning issued for North East

Stockton Borough Council confirmed the Yarm Fair closure on Facebook late last night (October 19), but stated that organisers are hoping to re-open on Saturday.

The Showmen's Guild said: "In the interest of public safety we have made the difficult decision to close Yarm Fair on Friday 20th October due to the extreme weather forecast for the region.

"We are hopeful to operate on Saturday as planned."

The Met Office forecast for the North East today reveals that the heavy winds are expected to persist.

Read next on Storm Babet:

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The forecaster said: "Staying wet and very windy on Friday as the influence of Strom Babet continues.

"Persistent and locally heavy rain likely, particularly over high ground, and strong easterly winds bringing gales to coastal areas. Feeling cool. Maximum temperature 11 °C."

However, into Saturday, the forecast suggests that winds will likely ease into Saturday and conditions will become drier.