Gale force winds and heavy rain set to batter UK this weekend

Fireworks displays over the weekend could be a washout, with gale force winds of up to 50mph and heavy rain forecast.

The whole country is set for a soggy few days, with the strongest winds forecast for north-west Scotland.

Gales could also blow along the coast of southern England and the Irish sea.

The Met Office said: "We are expecting unsettled weather this weekend, with spells of rain and strong to gale force winds at times.

"The current forecast is for southern parts of the UK are expected to see the strongest winds on Saturday with 40-50mph gusts along parts of the south coast of England.

"Meanwhile during Sunday into Monday the north and northwest of the UK is likely to experience the windiest conditions. Here gusts of 50-60mph are possible."

Sophie Yeomans, a forecaster at the Met Office, said: "Sunday and Monday are likely to see the heaviest rain, with flooding possible in Scotland and the north west of England.

"There will be gale force winds in some parts, and a very low risk of severe gales.

"The wind and rain will be in the day mostly, and will die down during the nights."