Coastal communities have been battered by high tides and flooding this morning.

Warnings have been issued for people to take care and to 'avoid walking' on a popular beach as high spring tides affect parts of the Suffolk coast.

With the possibility of 'some minor flooding to coastal roads and footpaths' in the Lowestoft area, according to the Environment Agency, Lowestoft's south beach has already been hit by the tides.

Recently installed beach huts at Pakefield Beach have been damaged by the flooding, while Oulton Broad has also been hit by hide tides, with an underpass underwater.

On Lowestoft South Beach, passer-by Beryl Coleman said she feared Lowestoft could flood due to the tides, saying: 'It's scary. I've never seen it so high.'

High tides was expected at Lowestoft at 10.45am, and coastguard rescue officers from HM Coastguard Lowestoft said: 'We already have a very high tide.

'You should avoid walking on the beach at South Lowestoft this morning.'

A spokesman for East Suffolk Council said: 'Due to today's high tides and strong winds, we would remind people to take extra care if visiting coastal or riverside areas.

'There are a number of flood warnings and alerts in place in East Suffolk and people are advised to sign up for flood information directly at www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings.'

The Environment Agency spokesman added: 'You are advised to stay away from risk areas and take care next to the coast.'