Strong winds hit Essex during the early hours of the morning, but concerns for more bad weather over the weekend have been scaled back.

The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

A second warning, due between Friday at 12pm and Saturday at 6pm, has now been removed.

People were being advised to expect some delays to road, rail, air and ferry and some short term loss of power.

The forecast for Friday now says: "Very windy on Friday, with coastal gales locally.

"Rain, heavier and more persistent to the south and west, clearing east early evening to clear spells and blustery showers. Milder. Maximum temperature 10 °C."

The outlook for the weekend said: "Breezy on Saturday, showers and sunny spells with rain possible in the evening.

"Less windy on Sunday, with sunshine and showers. Dry Monday, with lighter winds and a frosty start."

To view the warnings visit www.metoffice.gov.uk.