HIGH winds forecast for New Year's Eve could blight celebrations, says Worcester News weather expert Paul Damari.

"We have got to bear in mind that people will be travelling for the new year so we have to look outside the area," he said.

He said in the north-west of the country, Ireland, and Scotland, a first wave of gusty high winds of about 65mph would hit tonight.

"In this area we may see gusts later on that night, with some rain, of 50-60mph during the evening and night," he said.

"On Saturday, if anybody wants to get out it's breezy but not so bad."

Mr Damari said the second wave of winds was forecast to hit on New Year's Eve, again affecting the north-west, with gusts of 70-80mph.

"If anybody is going to the west and the north it will be gusty with some damage and trees falling," he said.

"In Worcestershire, we will see winds gust to 60-70mph. We are telling people to take care if they are out. What goes hand-in-hand with winds like these is structural damage, tree fall and power loss."

Mr Damari's forecast coincides with Highways Agency warnings that the winds will make driving difficult across many parts of the country.

Drivers are advised to take extra care on the road because rain and spray can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances.

People should also use headlights, keep well back from the vehicle in front, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

Up-to-date information on road conditions on motorways and trunk roads is available on the Highways Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk or call 08457 504030.

For information on weather conditions, log on to the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk