THE Met Office has issued a weather warning as winds are expected to reach up to 80mph tomorrow. 

Exposed sections of the Essex coast will see the strongest gusts but inland will also see strong winds - between 60 and 70mph.

The yellow warning runs from 3pm until 11.30pm tomorrow.

Country Land & Business Association is advising Essex farmers and landowners to check the condition of trees by the roadside and in public places with more strong winds forecast.

As a result, the CLA, which represents thousands of landowners, farmers and rural business in the eastern region, is warning its members they could face a claim for damages if a tree or a large branch falls in a public place.

CLA East Regional Surveyor Tim Woodward said: “Liability for damage or injury caused by fallen trees and branches depends on whether the owner knew, or should have known, that the tree was likely to fall.

“We are advising our members to inspect their roadside trees as soon as possible and keep a written record of the inspections to demonstrate due care and diligence in the unfortunate event of an accident.

“Being able to prove that proper care has been taken would also reduce the risk of facing council charges for clearing fallen timber from the public highway.”