CUMBRIA has avoided the worst of the heavy winds overnight but motorists are still being urged to be vigilant.

Strong winds on the M6 between J38 for Tebay and J40 for Penrith) mean matrix signs are set to 50 mph, and extra care is needed, especially over Shap Fell.

The road between Hawkshead and Newby Bridge is closed both ways, just south of Esthwaite Water Trout Fisheries, due to several fallen trees.

At 6am police were called to the M6 at Tebay after a lorry ended up in a field. The driver was not injured.

Yesterday electronic motorway signs on the M6 were down due to the storms.

Trains between Barrow and Whitehaven are delayed after wind damaged the Eskmeals Viaduct.

It means services on the northbound track across the viaduct have been suspended while it is examined by Network Rail engineers.

The viaduct is open with one track, but only passable with extreme caution, leading to delays to services.

Yesterday Shap had the heaviest rainfall in the country, with 29mm falling in 12 hours, while Lancashire saw rainfall of 7-10mm in the same period.

Matt Dobson, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, said the conditions in South Cumbria and Lancashire were particularly dangerous yesterday.

He said: "These are some of the strongest winds we have seen for two or three years in some of these areas.

"They are occurring in southern Cumbria and Lancashire, which are also seeing pretty heavy rain, causing treacherous conditions on the roads.

"They are difficult conditions and there is a risk of trees falling."

The Highways Agency has put drivers on 'amber alert' for the first time this autumn with gales making conditions hazardous.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles, caravans and motorbikes are advised to take extra care when travelling due to the increased risk of vehicles being blown over.

Meanwhile householders are advised to secure loose items in gardens and outdoor areas.

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