RAIL operator East Coast has warned high winds are likely to hit its services tonight and has urged passengers to complete their journeys as soon as they can.

Forecasters have predicted winds of up to 70mph this evening on the East Coast Main Line route, and ticket restrictions have been lifted on all East Coast's trains from 4.45pm until the end of services tonight.

"We have been closely monitoring weather conditions and taking advice from the Met Office throughout the day," said an East Coast spokesman.

"Our advice to all customers is to complete journeys as early as possible this evening, to check before setting out and to allow extra time to make your journey."

More information is at eastcoast.co.uk, on the company's twitter feed @eastcoastuk or by phoning National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950.