A park and three cemeteries around the Maldon District will be closed this weekend as the country readies itself for incoming Storm Darragh.

Maldon Promenade Park, along with cemeteries in Burnham-on-Crouch, Heybridge, and Maldon, will not be open to the public as usual.

In a message on social media, a spokesperson for Maldon District Council said: "We kindly ask everyone to avoid visiting our parks and cemeteries this weekend and to stay safe by not taking any unnecessary risks. Your safety is our top priority!

"Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Stay safe and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!"

The park closure means the Parkrun events scheduled this weekend have had to be cancelled.

The closures are in response to Met Office warnings predicting winds of up to 80mph across the country due to Storm Darragh.

The warning covers from 3pm tomorrow, Friday 6 until 6am on Sunday 8, and suggests some disruption and damage.

Essex will see gusts up to 40-50mph, as well as a high chance of rain all-day Saturday and Sunday.

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The weather has caused Burnham Carnival Committee to cancel their annual Festive Fayre, citing safety concerns.