Storm Darragh: Weekend events cancelled as storm hits Birmingham and the West Midlands with up to 60mph winds

A weather warning for wind is in place until Sunday (December 8) with winds of up to 60mph expected.

Birmingham’s Artisan Markets have been called off in Brindley Place and King’s Heath due to the wild weather.

Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens will close also on Saturday due to “very high winds”.

A spokesman said: “Visitor Announcement: Saturday, 7th December. Due to very high winds, the gardens, garden shop, and café will be closed for everyone’s safety

“.If you have Luminate tickets for tomorrow evening, their team will contact you directly if the event cannot proceed. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. Stay safe!”

Organisers of the artisan markets said: “It's not looking a lot like Christmas this weekend. In fact, it's looking incredibly windy. Because of predicted wind gusts of over 60mph on Saturday and 40mph+ on Sunday its just not possible, legal or safe to go ahead. So both our Christmas Market in Brindley Place & Kings Heath Artisan Market are cancelled.

“We have no choice when it comes to wind. It risks the safety of you, the public, and of our amazing traders. I can't tell you how much of a blow this is for the traders. We are micro businesses who rely on this time to get us through the quiet months at the beginning of the year. One ray of sunshine for you, though, King’s Heath Artisan Market will be popping up on York Road on the 22nd of December 10 - 3 instead.

“ There is no way we can see off 2024 without a final one of our OG market.”

Read more: Storm Darragh: When the storm will hit Birmingham and West Midlands with 60mph winds forecast.

Sutton Coldfield Christmas Market will be open but “with adjustments”.

Organisers said: “Important Update: Sutton Coldfield Christmas Market | Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th December

"Despite the forecasted Storm Darragh, we’re pleased to confirm that Sutton Coldfield Christmas Market will be open this weekend. To prioritise everyone’s safety, the market will operate with some adjustments: it will have a smaller footprint, and only chalets will be open for trading (no canopies or additional units).

"If it’s safe for you, we’d love to welcome you to come down and show your support for your local Christmas market!"

Parks runs, including one in Perry Barr, and scheduled roadworks on the M42 have also been called off.

RSPB Sandwell Valley posted: "Tomorrows Winter Warmer Walk has been cancelled due to Storm Darragh, we have also needed to make changes to the Festive Fungi Event, if you have tickets for either please check your emails or get in touch [email protected]

Solihull's 'Jingle Jog' has also been cancelled.

Trains and roads are also set to be affected. More to follow.