FESTIVE travellers could face major disruption to their Christmas travel plans with severe gales and heavy rainfall predicted.

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning, with the threat of gusts of up to 80mph and localised flooding in pockets of the UK, just in time for the big getaway.

Motorists have been braced to prepare for delays, particularly those heading to the south-west of England and parts of Scotland.

While those looking to make an early getaway across the seas have already faced some disruption to services as a result of the adverse weather.

Calum MacColl, forecaster with the Met Office, said those looking to travel home for Christmas ought to prepare for problems on the roads and rails.

He said: "There is scope for very heavy rain, potentially some localised flooding, and strong winds in some areas so there is a risk of travel disruption."

Winds of 50 to 60mph are predicted, though the worst of the weather is expected to clear by the end of Christmas Eve.

London Midland had already given its rail passengers with advance tickets for today the option of travelling yesterday instead, with customers encouraged to check National Rail Enquiries or speak to their train company.