DAMAGE caused by recent storms was felt across Tynedale this week.

The whole of the UK faced weather warnings as 70mph winds from Storm Isha led to fallen trees causing power cuts and blocking roads, closing schools and damaging properties across the region on Monday and Tuesday (January 22 and 23).

Yellow wind warnings were in place until midday yesterday (January 24). 

Storm Isha disrupted power supplies, with approximately 32,479 Northern Powergrid customers affected by the storm, and those in Northumberland worst impacted.

Tynedale businesses, including the First & Last Brewery in Bellingham, were victims of the resulting devastation of the storm.

The brewery's taproom marquee, which had been secured to the fence, was ripped apart but owners Sam and Red Kelly were grateful there was no further damage caused.

They added: "We will make additional seating space available in the brewhouse for taproom guests over the next few weeks while the weather remains inclement."

Two fallen trees ripped down Bellingham's powerlines, leaving parts of the village without electricity or a telephone signal for up to 19 hours.

Flooding and blocked roads cut the village off from transport links, with Bellingham Middle and Primary Schools forced to close due to being inaccessible.

Elsewhere in Tynedale, power cuts were reported in villages including Haydon Bridge and blocked roads were reported on the A695 and B6318.

Otterburn Mill was flooded on Sunday night with most of the buildings on site affected by flood damage.

Forestry England officials closed Kielder Forest 'indefinitely' for Storm Isha's damage to be assessed. Park officials confirmed fallen trees blocked access routes and trails. There was also some flooding in the area, causing further damage.