STRONG winds that have battered Bolton are set to continue into the night, after a day which has seen heavy gusts across the region.

The fierce weather managed to fell a tree in Darcy Lever- completely blocking Hacken Lane.

The lane, close to the local cricket club and local playing fields, was shut off earlier this afternoon until the tree was able to be moved.

The Met Office has warned that it will be staying windy this evening, with outbreaks of rain and scattered showers continuing into the night across the region.

There could be the odd clear spell in the north, but it will remain mostly cloudy. The minimum temperature will be around 8 °C.

Elsewhere in the North West, motorway police received reports of a tent and other debris which had blown onto the M56, "due to the increased wind speeds."

Northern Rail also saw delays, with trees blocking lines between Southport and Wigan Wallgate.

For further information, visit: metoffice.gov.uk.