Some of Kent's biggest visitor attractions have had to close as Storm Ciara wreaks havoc across the county.

Leeds Castle, near Maidstone, and Rochester Castle announced this morning they not be taking visitors as high winds are forecast throughout Sunday.

Similar news followed from Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve near Hythe as well as Wingham Wildlife Park, The Wildwood Trust and Howletts Wild Animal Park, which are all based near Canterbury.

A statement from Rochester Castle read: "Due to storm Ciara Rochester Castle will be closed to the public today. We have removed the flag prior to today to prevent damage to the flag pole.

"We are sorry if this causes any disappointment, but look forward to welcoming you to the castle soon."

Leeds Castle, which is 900 years old, apologised for any inconvenience.

Any guests planning to stay in its accommodation are advised to call 01622 767823 for further information.

Maidstone Borough Council issued the following statement yesterday: "An amber alert for wind has been put in place for tomorrow, as a result of this our parks that can be locked will remain locked.

"We do not advise you to walk underneath trees, please take care if you are out and about and watch for falling branches."

Three lanes were blocked on the M20 earlier after a lamppost came down near Junction 6 for Aylesford.

The lamppost blocked all three lanes on the coastbound carriageway but has now been moved, only lane three remains shut.

For a full round up of the impact Storm Ciara is having on Kent, click here.

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