An urgent investigation into the safety of all 1,800 bridges in the northern English county of Cumbria has begun after heavy rains and floods collapsed at least six pedestrian and road bridges.

Following days of heavy rainfall, which reached a record 314mm in just 24 hours, the government issued emergency warnings that bridges in the area could collapse at any time

At least 16 bridges and 25 roads have been closed across the county ahead of anticipated rainfall and winds.

There are more than 60 flood warnings in force across south-western and northern parts of England, Scotland and Wales.

The cost of rebuilding bridges and repair roads damaged by the floods will cost the Cumbria County Council between £50m and £100m, according to The Times. The government has already pledged £2m to deal with the crises.