Warnings of "high winds and extreme rain" have been issued by the Met Office today as stormy weather threatens to disrupt the roads and transport network.

An amber warning has been issued for London and the South-East and people haved been warned to "be prepared" for disruption.

The stormy conditions should ease off on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

It comes on what is expected to be the busiest day of Christmas food and drink shopping in the UK's supermarkets.

South West Trains expect severe disruption from about 1pm, with heavy rain and strong winds of up to 60mph across its network in the south east.

First Capital Connect will run a reduced service on the Thameslink (Wimbledon loop) route today.

It is also one of the busiest days on the road ahead of Christmas, according to the AA, and the Highways Agency has advised drivers to avoid certain roads if possible.