Cornwall was hit by gale forced winds today gusting at times in excess of 80mph.

The police and the Highways Agency advised drivers to take extra care on the roads in Cornwall.

Drivers are advised to use headlights and keep well back from the vehicle in front. Water on the road can reduce tyre grip and makes steering unresponsive. Drivers should ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

A number of trees have already come down in the county overnight including some at Redruth, Liskeard, Launceston, St Mawes and Truro. Debris from branches has also caused problems.

At Chacewater, near Cocks Hill, a tree came down on the main road and another fell onto a road adjacent to the A30 at Hayle.

An electricty pole collapsed in Truro and power cables were wrenched from a pole at St Austell. In other parts of the county there were a number of power cuts. Many householders woke up to total darkness.

There were also rescues at sea although surfers braved the weather to enjoy good waves off Falmouth.

Keep up to date with the weather by clicking onto weather in the left hand menu.

Send us your short video clips and pictures: Simply start the message by entering the keyword PKNEWS, leave a space and then key in description of your picture or video and then send it to 07834 487010 (make sure your picture or video is attached!). This service is FREE but you may be charged at your normal mobile operator rate. Service provided by Newsquest Media Group.