DRIVERS are being urged to avoid Prescot Road after a tree fell across three lanes just after the Eccleston Arms pub.

Eye-witnesses said that motorists narrowly avoided being struck by the fallen tree close to West Park Road but at this point there are no reports of any injuries.

Ormskirk Street in the town centre has also been closed off as firefighters clear fallen roof tiles.

And the town centre Christmas tree has also fallen victim to the strong winds.

A council spokesperson said:  “Due to the high winds we had cordoned off the area around the tree before it was blown down.  No one was injured.
Other public Christmas trees have also been checked and are being monitored as are Christmas lights as the high winds continue.”

It is understood the tree, which snapped at the base, will be reinstalled tomorrow.