South East prepares for impact of Storm Austen

Seafront closures, cancelled events and travel disruption are expected as the first named storm of the season approaches south-east England.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind across the region, with gusts of up to 70mph (113km/h) forecast on Friday.

In East Sussex, sections of Eastbourne seafront promenade will close because of concerns about large waves and strong winds.

In Kent, Betteshanger Country Park near Deal said it would close on Friday because of the forecast weather conditions.

The warning covers coastal areas from 00:00 BST until 17:00 and inland areas from 10:00 until 21:00.

Storm Austen is the first named storm of the season and comes as an amber wind warning remains in force in parts of south-west England.

Forecasters have also warned of large waves and high tides along parts of the coastline.

Eastbourne Borough Council said the Bandstand would also close and some surrounding hoardings would be removed ahead of Storm Austen.

In West Sussex, Horsham's Fireworks Night on Saturday has been cancelled because of the forecast conditions.

Organisers said ticket holders would receive automatic refunds.

Ashurst Wood Bonfire Society has also cancelled its bonfire and fireworks event because of "safety concerns", with organisers hoping to reschedule it at a later date.

Organisers said they hoped to reschedule the event at a later date.

Littlehampton Bonfire Night is still due to go ahead, although organisers said a final decision would be made on Saturday.

Rail passengers have been advised to check before travelling and allow more time for their journeys.

Network Rail warned strong winds could bring trees and other objects on to tracks, leading to delays and disruption.

Residents living near railway lines have been asked to secure loose items, including trampolines and garden furniture.

The Met Office said some areas could experience short-term power cuts and disruption to other services.

The RNLI said people should be aware of dangers in the sea that weather conditions might bring.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.