THE Met Office is warning of flash flooding and gales exceeding 50mph for Sunday.

The British Heart Foundation has cancelled the Dorset Bike Ride in light of the weather conditions.

The forecasters say up to 50mm of rain may fall on already sodden ground, causing flooding, and warn that strong winds from an "unusual direction" may lead to fallen trees.

The warning says: "An area of heavy rain and strong winds will spread northwards across the southern half of the UK on Sunday.

"The public should be aware that this may lead to some local flooding given the recent wet conditions, and that northeasterly winds may exceed 50 mph in some locations, bringing the risk of falling trees.

"There is a chance that this warning may be upgraded to amber over the weekend."

In an announcement on their website, the BHF said: "Due to the extreme weather predicted for Sunday we have taken the decision to postpone the Dorset Bike Ride until a date in the future.

"We are extremely sorry that we have had to make this call, as we are aware that so many of you, just like us were looking forward to the ride. However the safety and enjoyment of our participants is always our upmost priority so we hope you all understand our decision.

"We will let you know of the new date once we have spoken to the many people that help us make this event the success it is."