Lancashire Constabulary is warning motorists to take extra care on the roads because of the heavy rain.

The persistent downpours have caused flooding on a number of roads across the county, while surface water is also causing problems on the motorways.

Inspector Phil Cottam, Lancashire Constabulary's head of motorway policing, said: "The driving conditions at the minute can only be described as horrendous. I would urge motorists to slow down and use their common sense. Standing water on the motorways is making it difficult for people to drive and I would ask them to make sure they follow the matrix signs.

"There is also a lot of flooding on the local roads and it can be difficult to judge just how deep the water is, so if you can avoid driving through a huge puddle then please do. The best advice today would be if you don't need to travel then stay at home."