'Stay away from coast' plea as flood alert issued for Hunstanton

People are being urged to stay away from Hunstanton's seafront amid fears of potential flooding causes by Storm Eunice.

A flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency, advising that large waves and overtopping is possible until 10pm tonight.

The alert, which was issued this lunchtime, said: "You are advised to stay away from risk areas and take care next to the coast.

"We are monitoring the situation as Storm Eunice moves across the area. Our incident response staff are checking defences. This message will be updated if the situation changes."

Earlier today, West Norfolk Council said flood gates on the town's promenade would be closed for at least two hours either side of high tides today and through the weekend.

Although the worst of the gales are expected to start to ease later this afternoon, more strong winds are forecast through the weekend.