Experts at the Met Office said the south-westerly winds could reach severe gale force over higher ground on Sunday.

Regional advisor Alan Goodman said this would add to blustery showers which will build into longer spells of rain throughout the day.

He said: "These winds may bring down twigs and branches and could impact upon high-sided vehicles over exposed or high-level routes.

"This weather pattern will persist through Sunday night with winds hopefully moderating during Monday."

The forecast for Lancashire is for intermittent rain on Saturday morning which will develop into heavier downpours in the afternoon.

Strong winds and showers are expected throughout Saturday night with the worst-affected areas on the coastline.

Cumbria is expected to be the worst hit again having been pounded by once-in-a-1,000 year rainfall on Thursday and Friday which left much of the county underwater.

Gordon Brown has arrived in Cumbria on Saturday morning to see the damage and speak with those affected by the floods.

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