WALKERS are to be advised to tread carefully after a tree has fallen along the southern bank of Colne Water.

Following Storm Eleanor, the tree was damaged by strong winds and was seen leaning towards a public footpath.

The path runs along the river from Leaches Road to Carry Bridge at the bottom of Coal Pit Lane in Colne.

A Pendle Council spokesman said: "There is a risk that the tree may collapse so Pendle Council is asking people not to use this footpath.

"Pendle Council's countryside access officer has put warning signs up and liaised with the owners of the tree.

"The landowner has arranged for a tree surgeon to fell the tree today."

Around 190 properties were affected by the storm which hit East Lancashire on Wednesday.

Engineers from Electricity North West were called out to Exchange Street in Sunnyhurst, Lower Darwen, at 2.26am.

Early-morning commuters travelling on the M65 were warned to keep to the 50mph by the matrix signs.

Meanwhile, Chorley police had a busy night as they dealt with some road closures due to trees falling down on Great Lane, Croston, and another in Bannister Lane, Eccleston.

Looking ahead to the weekend, more showers are expected today and tomorrow but it will be largely dry and bright on Sunday.