FAST ferries from Dorset have been cancelled in advance as another spell of rough seas and strong winds is due to hit the area tomorrow.

This evening South West Trains has said that it expects to run a reduced service on Monday afternoon.

A spokesperson for South West Trains- Network Rail Alliance said: "We want to take this opportunity to warn passengers of the forecasts and the effect they could have on the network.

"Like other transport operators, we are monitoring the situation closely to ensure we put the safety of customers and our staff first.

"We are also advising passengers to take extra care during their journeys, plan ahead by checking the latest travel information and allow extra time to complete their trips."

The Met Office upgraded its warning to 'amber' on Sunday lunchtime for severe rain for the region, Condor Ferries cancelled its high speed sailings between the Channel Isles and Weymouth and warned that conventional ferries could also be delayed because of the weather.

While shoppers enjoyed a short lull in the angry weather on Sunday, the forecast from 7am tomorrow is for another intense area of low pressure to hit the area causing heavy rain in the south, where ground is already saturated from heavy rainfall.

Very strong south to south-westerly winds will accompany the rain, especially along exposed coasts and hills where gales or severe gales are likely.

Residents are being warned by the Met Office of the risk of localised flooding and possible disruption to transport due to a combination of wind and rain.

The chief forecaster said: “This will bring 20-40 mm rainfall quite widely, with over 60 mm likely across parts of the high ground of southern England and South Wales.

"Falling onto saturated ground, this will bring the risk of both surface water and river flooding.

"Meanwhile, south to southwesterly winds will increase with gusts 70-80 mph likely around exposed coasts, particularly along the English Channel.

"Further inland, gusts of 50-60 mph are likely through the amber area, with a lower risk of gusts reaching 70 mph - more especially across southeast England during the evening."