THE Okehampton area remained largely unscathed by the storm that battered regions of southern Britain.

High winds and heavy rain hit swathes of the south west, with felled trees and flooding affecting travel on both rail and the roads. Across Devon, 81 trees were reported down, including many on the major A roads.

On Monday morning, temporary traffic lights were put in place on the A3072 between Highampton and Holsworthy as the road lifted due to flooding. The A386 between Merton and Meeth also lifted due to flood water, and had traffic lights. The A386 near RHS Rosemoor also flooded, but was passable.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council's cabinet member for highway maintenance and flood prevention, said Highways teams were out all through the night responding to incidents as they've occurred.

The priority once the wind and rain moved on was to deal with the disruption to the priority road network, to get it clear as quickly as possible.

Drivers are advised to remain cautious, watch their speed and keep up to date with the latest weather information, which can be found via the Met Office online at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/sw/sw_forecast_warnings.htm">www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/sw/sw_forecast_warnings.htm