The Environment Agency says the heavy rain combined with melting snow may lead to flooding in a number of areas.

Early on Saturday, the agency issued a flood watch for all watercourses in Cumbria.

Among the advice it has issued it to tune into weather and travel bulletins, keep a watch on water levels, drive carefully and check livestock and pets are safe.

Police and fire crews in Cumbria have been busy.

Fixtures cancelled

In Rockliffe, near Carlisle, firefighters rescued a mother and child who were trapped in a car which stalled in three feet of water.

The Environment Agency said the weather conditions may result in general flooding from rivers and streams.

Among those it says could be affected are the North Tyne, South Tyne and Rede, the River Tyne from Hexham to Corbridge, the Cockshaw Burn at Hexham, the River Wear downstream to Bishop Auckland and the River Tees downstream to Piercebridge.

The rain meant a large number of sporting fixtures across the region have been postponed.