Colchester market has been cancelled this Friday as Essex braced itself for Storm Eunice to arrive. 

Winds of up to 70mph are set to batter Colchester tomorrow. 

Storm Eunice is expected to bring winds of up to 90mph across the UK when it hits. 

An amber weather warning has been issued for Essex and much of the south east of England. 

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said: "Storm Eunice is expected to track eastwards from early on Friday, bringing the most significant winds to the central and southern areas of the UK, with some gusts possible in excess of 95mph in exposed coastal areas.” 

Organisers of Colchester market have confirmed Friday's weekly market will not go ahead for safety reasons. 

In a Tweet it said: "Please note – Colchester Market is cancelled this Friday due to forecasted high winds from Storm Eunice.

"The decision has been made in the interest of the safety of traders and customers. The next market will be held on Saturday (19 Feb)."

 

Gazette:

The Environment Agency has warned of the risk of flooding to coastal areas in southern England on Friday.

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Flood duty manager Katharine Smith said: “Strong winds could bring coastal flooding to parts of the west, south-west and south coast of England, as well as the tidal River Severn, through the early hours of Friday morning and into the early afternoon.

“This is due to Storm Eunice resulting in high waves and potential storm surge coinciding with the start of a period of spring tides.”

She said agency teams were making preparations, erecting barriers and clearing screens where flood debris can build up.