Storm Darragh disrupts travel and cancels events

Storm Darragh is causing disruption across the North East, with travel affected and events cancelled.

The region has escaped the worst of the storm, but a yellow weather warning for wind and rain remains in force.

Christmas events have been hit hard, with fairs in Stockton, North Shields and a Santa's Grotto in Saltburn called off.

With some roads blocked by fallen trees, drivers have also been warned to allow extra time for any journeys.

Dozens of power cuts have been reported to Northern Powergrid, mainly in Northumberland.

On Teesside, traffic has been diverted from the A689 going towards Hartlepool, due to large amounts of debris on the carriageway.

Fallen trees have also led to the closure of one side of Flatts Lane, near Normanby.

Cleveland Police said there were long tailbacks and drivers are being urged to avoid the area.

On Tyneside, Blaydon Bridge on the A1 has been closed to high-sided vehicles.

The Shields Ferry is not running, and operator Nexus has said a replacement bus service is in place using the Tyne Tunnel.

On Friday, DFDS announced the cancellation of its crossings between Newcastle and Amsterdam until Sunday due to "adverse weather conditions".

Beamish Museum also issued a statement to apologise it was having to close its doors at one of the busiest times of the year.

It said: "We're saddened to have to make this decision, but the safety of our visitors, staff and volunteers must always come first."

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