The River Ribble near Avenham Park in early December Pic: Paul Melling

The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning for heavy rain on Boxing Day.

Preston and Lancashire are braced to be lashed with up to 50mm of rain.

The amber warning replaces the yellow warning which had been in place for Christmas Day evening throughout Boxing Day. A number of flood warnings have also been issued.

Disruption is expected due to “river and surface water flooding” according to forecasters.

The chief forecaster writes: “Rain, persistent and heavy at times, is expected to affect parts of northern England through much of Boxing Day.

“There remains uncertainty over the exact location and intensity of the heaviest rainfall, with continued signs of a slight southward shift in highest totals. 50 to 80 mm of rain is likely over some of the high ground, and perhaps 120 mm possible over the most exposed sites.

“Given current sensitivities, these rainfall amounts are likely to trigger some medium impacts.”

What have you got planned for Boxing Day? Will it affect your plans? Let us know in the comments below