West's seafronts closed and railway hit by floods

Seafronts and a railway line have been closed following high winds and heavy rain overnight.

The Beach Road by Clevedon seafront and gates along the promenade at Weston-super-Mare have been closed, while the river next to the A4 in Bristol has flooded the Portway.

The rail tracks between Clifton Down in Bristol and Severn Beach have also been closed due to flooding.

National Rail said water has risen above the tracks.

The update comes as heavy rain and strong winds continue to batter parts of southern England.

National Rail said train services running to and from Severn Beach will run between Taunton, Weston-super-Mare, Bristol Temple Meads and Clifton Down only.

The closure is expected to remain in place until approximately 12:30 BST.

A National Rail spokesperson added: "When flood water rises above the rails, train services are suspended to prevent damage to the train and track.

"Flooding can also cause a short circuit and cut the power to signalling and important trackside equipment."

In Clevedon, large waves have been seen pounding the seafront and disruption is also expected along Portishead seafront.

In Weston-super-Mare, residents are being warned of strong winds and a high tide close to 13m (42ft).

North Somerset Council said gates along the promenade have been closed and will remain closed until the worst of the weather has passed.

In Wiltshire, the line between Salisbury and Warminster has been blocked by a fallen tree.

Great Western Railway said train services running through these stations may be cancelled or delayed by up to an hour.

The disruption is expected to last until 09:00 BST.

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