ENGINEERS were today inspecting the M62 after high winds threatened to bring huge lighting columns crashing down.

Seven columns swaying in gale force conditions were removed over the weekend amid fears they could fall on to drivers.

This morning inspectors continued checks stretching from Greater Manchester to Yorkshire as forecasts predicted more weather chaos over the next few days.

The Highways Agency apologised for any inconvenience to Bolton drivers using the motorway, but said safety work was essential.

Workmen this morning closed the M62's westbound offside lane between junctions 21 and 22 to complete checks.

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