INLAND gales of up 75mph are expected to lash the UK over the weekend as Autumn begins to bite. Officials from the MET Office have warned the public to expect gale-force winds and heavy rain while motorists are being warned to be alert whilst out and abou

INLAND gales of up 75mph are expected to lash the UK over the weekend as Autumn begins to bite.

Officials from the MET Office have warned the public to expect gale-force winds and heavy rain while motorists are being warned to be alert whilst out and about.

Ely Farmer's Market has also been postponed in expectation of the downturn in conditions.

Met Office Chief Forecaster, Bob Wilderspin, says: "We are expecting severe weather over the next few days. We are monitoring how the situation develops, issuing forecasts and warnings to keep you updated. You are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecast on TV, radio or online."

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "We urge people to check the latest flooding situation and sign up to our free flood warnings service at www.environment-agency.gov.uk or by calling 08459 88118."

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has warned even the most experienced drivers to take care and issued advice on how to take care during the expected torrential conditions:

HEAVY RAIN - watch for the shiny patches that are lying water; give yourself a longer gap to other traffic, and be ready to slow down when you need to; keep the demister working; don't soak pedestrians or cyclists by running through puddles .

FLOODING - lower your speed right down and choose the shallowest route available , use the middle of the road if that's where it is and you can. Use a low gear to keep revs high and control speed by slipping the clutch (beware that water could enter the exhaust, so keep the revs up). Make sure you can see the way out before you enter water, and if it is too deep, or too fast moving, don't risk it.

HIGH WINDS - Slow down - you are more vulnerable to side winds at higher speeds. Give yourself more space, with plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front; take particular care when passing large vehicles and motorcycles, and be ready for side winds at gaps in buildings or as you come out of a cutting. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to side winds.