Drivers warned about weather.

NORTH East motorists are being advised to take extra care on the roads and check weather forecasts before travelling.

The warning from the Highways Agency comes as the Met Office forecasts spells of wet and windy weather.

The wind will bring some heavy outbreaks of rain, perhaps accompanied by snow on the highest trans-Pennine routes, which could affect driving conditions.

High-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable to strong winds, so the Highways Agency has issued an 'amber' alert for lorry drivers across the north of England.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: "When the road is wet, it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining. If your vehicle loses its grip, or aquaplanes, on surface water take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.

"Don't brake or steer suddenly because you have no control of the steering or brakes."