Solar eclipse 2015: Will cloud spoil the view for Brits?

Oh dear - it seems the British weather is set to spoil the hopes of many who are preparing to witness the partial solar eclipse this coming Friday.

The event - the passing of the moon between the sun and earth - is due to take place at 8.45am on 20 March, at which time much of the UK is expected to be under plenty of cloud.

As the moon passes the sun a shadow will darken the skies above, although this dramatic effect - a cosmic phenomenon - might not be so mesmerising because of forecast grey skies.

At the moment it looks like a few breaks are possible - more so towards the west and south-west of England and perhaps west Wales.

The rest of the country need not give up hope yet though: Friday is a fairly long way away in the forecasting world and we know how frustratingly changeable the Great British weather can be.

What I'm basically saying is it's too early to say for certain the exact position of the cloud.

Cloud cover or not, if you're on the school run or the rat race into work it's best you prepare for it, and by that I mean: stay safe.

Even though the sun will appear dimmer for a short time it can still damage your eyes, so don't look directly at it - even if you're wearing sunglasses - and don't use a telescope or binoculars.