LARGE and powerful waves are expected to batter the Cumbrian coastline for a second day as a result of high spring tides and strong winds.

Flood gates were closed and Environment Agency staff were on standby yesterday as a flood warning was issued covering the area between Gretna and Silloth, including Skinburness, Port Carlisle and Rockcliffe.

It has now been downgraded to an alert, meaning flooding is still possible, and staff are continuing to closely monitor the situation.

A second alert for the coast is in force for Silloth to St Bees, while a third covers upper River Derwent, Stonethwaite Beck and Derwentwater.

Tides are expected to be at their highest between 11.30am and 1.30pm.

Flooding to low lying areas, roads and farmland is expected at these times, the Environment Agency warned. However, conditions may apply two hours either side of the high tide.

Areas at particular risk are Mossband Hall, Burgh Marsh, Port Carlisle, Bowness-on-Solway, Skinburness Marsh, Skinburness and Silloth.

The public is asked to avoid using low lying coastal footpaths and roads during this period.

Meanwhile the Environment Agency said the level of Derwentwater had risen as a result of heavy rainfall yesterday and overnight.

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"Consequently, flooding of low lying land and footpaths around the lake's edge is expected to continue during this morning," states the alerts.

"The lake level is expected to be at it's highest mid-morning when it will gradually start to recede.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Please avoid using low lying footpaths around Derwentwater."