Early winter hits Britain as temperatures plunge

The UK is set for an early winter with high winds and plummeting temperatures expected.

Weather warnings have been issued for much of northern England and Scotland, while Londoners have been told to prepare for “brisk winds”

Coastal areas have been put on alert for "large waves" and meteorologists warned transport links could be hit by disruption.

Chief forecaster Eddy Carroll said: "While such wind gusts would not be unusual in the autumn and winter, they are likely to pose a few more problems coming in the summer holiday period, especially for those engaged in outdoor activities such as sailing or hill walking.