A flood warning has been put in place around a brook in the borough as heavy rain and hail are forecast for the area.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning around Pearl Brook in Horwich, which runs through the town centre and down towards the M61.

Homes and businesses on Winter Hey Lane, Mason Street and adjoining streets are being warned of a risk of flooding. 

On the flood warning, the Environment Agency confirmed the area affected "Horwich town centre from Bridge Street and Old Station Park to the M61, homes and businesses on Winter Hey Lane, Mason Street and adjoining roads including St. John Street, New Brunswick Street, Emmett Street, Taylor Street and Chorley New Road".

From 1pm to 6pm this afternoon, the Met Office predicts heavy rain for Horwich, with a 90 per cent chance of precipitation in the area, interrupted by a hail shower between 2pm and 3pm.

Winds of up to 13mph are also predicted over the course of the afternoon.