SWINDON was battered and bruised overnight on Monday as winds of 45mph hit the region.

By 8.30am yesterday, Wiltshire Police received calls from the public informing them that across the region, the wind had knocked over 36 trees, with the Met Office issuing a weather warning.

In Swindon, reports said the gusts knocked down eight trees.

Motorists suffered some disruption with the fallen tress blocking roads, with police officers working with Swindon Borough Council’s specialist tree teams to safely remove them.

The strongest winds were recorded between 2am and 5am yesterday as the gales caused a power cut which affected 1,400 properties in the town.

Southern Electric worked during the night with power being restored yesterday morning.

The authorities have warned the public to take extra care as strong winds are expected to hit the town again today.

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said: “During poor or extreme weather conditions people are always asked to think twice about going out or taking a journey.

“We always ask those who have to travel in high winds to be extra mindful of poor conditions, like falling branches and debris on roads, and adjust their driving to suit these conditions.”

The weather is forecast to improve towards the weekend but commuters are being advised to plan ahead before their bank holiday weekend travel.

Nicola Willis, a Met Office forecaster, said: “‘It is a typical low pressure system which will bring strong winds and gales as well, particularly in the west.

“We will see north-westerly air flow with conditions developing back into showers and clear spells but Winds will stay strong, particularly in the west, so we could see further gale force gusts.”

Those taking long journeys this weekend are asked to check the weather forecast on the day of their trip for the most accurate predictions.

Mark Spowage, an AA spokesman, said: “Despite a rather unsettled forecast, we expect a lot of people to get away this Easter, as it falls quite early this year.

“There will be a lot of pressure on the main getaway routes, particularly in the south west. Do the essential checks on your car before heading off.", paying particular attention to the tyres and adjusting the pressures for a heavy load, if required.”

Pete Williams, an RAC spokesman, said: “The first spring bank holiday of the year traditionally heralds the start of busier weekends on the nation’s roads.

“This Easter is set to be a hectic one with 16 million of us getting behind the wheel for an Easter break, but at least we will benefit from the longer days and lighter evenings to complete our journeys.”