Households told ‘lock your doors and charge phones’ this week

The UK has been battered by gale force winds as disruption has been wrought across various parts of England, Wales and Scotland in the past few days - and the windswept Bank Holiday is not over yet.

Leeds and Reading Festival was plunged into chaos on Friday as stages were closed and gig goers were forced to shelter in their tents at the northern site in Yorkshire, while roads were closed as falling trees caused carnage in the surrounding area.

And other areas of the UK were beset by the howling gales - with more strong winds possible the rest of this weekend and early next week.

The Met Office has advice available for those worried about high winds, including information on how best to prepare and protect yourself against the gusts.

Firstly, The Met Office explains how to ‘protect your property from damage and other people from injury’.

It says that you should secure loose items in your garden, such as bins, plant pots, garden furniture and trampolines, including turning trampolines upside down.

You should also lock shed doors and garage doors to prevent anything blowing out.

The forecaster has also warned that if you’re travelling, you should plan your route carefully, check for delays, and pack essentials in your car including warm clothing, food, drinks, a blanket and torch.

Finally, you should take a ‘fully charged’ mobile phone along with an in-car charger and a battery pack.

When outside, it adds: “Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees.”