FORECASTERS have issued a warning for gusts of wind of up to 70mph across Wirral later this week.

Between 9pm on Wednesday, January 17 and 1pm Thursday, January 18 strong winds are expected to affect parts of the North West, with the strongest expected to travel eastwards.

There will be disruptions to road, rail and ferry services with the potential for longer journey times and cancellations.

Power cuts and damage to mobile phone coverage are also expected.

People are being warned to stay aware of dangers from flying debris and damage to buildings.

Large waves are expected to affect some western coasts with beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

The chief forecaster said: "During Wednesday night and into Thursday there is the potential for gusts of 60 to 70 mph quite widely and a small chance of winds reaching 80 mph in places.

"The location of the most damaging winds is currently uncertain, although parts of northern and eastern England along with southern Scotland currently look more at risk.

"Along with the strong winds a spell of heavy rain can also be expected, which could also be combined with a temporary thaw of lying snow in the north."