STRONG winds caused damage to boats at Mudeford Quay this morning.

A clean-up operation was carried out by Christchurch council after strong gusts tipped vessels over, with heavy rain flooding the surrounding roads.

At 7.50am, the anemometer at Highcliffe Sailing Club recorded a gust of 97 knots which is 111mph. 

A spokesperson for Christchurch and East Dorset councils said today: “Strong winds have caused damage and disruption at Mudeford Quay this morning. A clean-up operation is currently underway at the site, but it you own a boat in the area we advise you check it.

"Please take care if you are out and about in the bad weather conditions today.”

At nearby Sandhills Holiday park, several lodges were damaged with decking blown down.

It was also reported that a tree branch was blown 20 feet over a lodge before smashing into a parked car.