Visitors to Southend Pier are being turned away due to high winds. 

Bosses have announced the walkway is closed until further notice due to the strong gusts which have been battering Essex since yesterday evening. 

The train is still offering rides but passengers are not able to get off at any point during the journey. 

In a brief statement posted on Twitter, bosses at Southend Pier said: "The pier walkway is currently closed due to high winds.

"The trains are still running if you fancy a ride to the pier head. Due to the weather conditions you will not be able to get off the train.

"Keep an eye on our social pages for updates."

The Met Office says winds of up to 41mph were being recorded in Southend as of 12pm today. 

Forecasters say wind speeds will remain high throughout the afternoon, eventually droppping below 30mph around 7pm today. 

A mix of sun, cloud and showers are expected in Southend throughout the rest of the day. 

The weather has been causing havoc across south Essex, with some train services affected, while trees have also been felled. 

Elmsleigh Drive, in Leigh, has been closed throughout the morning after it was blocked by a fallen tree