BOSSES at a Bolton shopping centre say it's business as usual after 'bizarre' weather resulted in flash flooding.

Heavy downpours hit the town on Wednesday night, with rain seen streaming through the Market Place's roof.

Videos posted on social media showed water pooling in the centre's walkways and atriums.

Manager of the centre, Nikki Wilson-Cook, praised staff and said there was no damage to the building.

She said: "The staff have been absolutely brilliant. They got it all cleaned up in a couple of hours.

"Fortunately none of the shops had to close because of what time it happened and there’s no damage to the building.

"We’re all very pleased and everyone was safe."

Mrs Wilson-Cook described the incident at the Market Place as “bizarre”, blaming the “unusual weather”.

She added: “It’s a very unique and old, Victorian building.

“The guttering can only take so much water and it just couldn’t handle the intensity of the rainfall.

“It was very unusual weather and it’s just one of those bizarre Mother Nature experiences.”

As well as the Market Place, standing water built up quickly on roads and created treacherous conditions for drivers. Delays were reported in St Peter’s Way and Crompton Way, by Transport for Greater Manchester.

Residents were also told to expect possible damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, as well as some short term loss of power.

Stormy weather conditions were forecast to blast Bolton today, with thunderstorms and heavy showers expected.

Forecasters have warned of disruption to travel and power supplies across the North West.

A spokesman said: “Although not everywhere will get one, heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to break out across central and northern England during Wednesday afternoon, easing from the south during the evening.

“These thunderstorms bring the potential for lightning strikes and hail, with sudden downpours and gusty winds.”

A heavy downpour hit the town during rush hour, causing standing water to build up quickly on roads and creating treacherous conditions for drivers.

Delays have been reported around the town, mainly on St Peter’s Way and Crompton Way, by Transport for Greater Manchester - who have cautioned drivers to allow extra time for journeys.

Residents are being told to expect possible damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes, as well as some short term loss of power and possible delays to train services.

Driving conditions are also expected to be affected by spray, standing water or hail which could lead to longer journey times.

Flooding of a few homes and businesses is also possible, the Met Office warned.