THE Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for much of the UK, including the Tyne Valley.

The warning is in place from 6pm on Monday until 8am on Tuesday, when the strong winds of Storm Helene are expected to batter the country.

Gusts of up to 80mph are expected in some coastal areas, and the high winds are expected to have an impact on the transport network.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Andy Page said: "A spell of very strong winds is expected.

"Winds are likely to gust to 55-65 mph quite widely in the warning area, with possible gusts of 70-80 mph in exposure."

Delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport are also expected, whilst short term power losses and damage to trees could occur.

The storm is expected to dissipate over the North Sea by Wednesday morning.